Laundry treating apparatus and control method of laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a laundry treatment apparatus comprising a heating portion generating steam supplied to a placed laundry and steam supplied to an iron, said heating portion can be arranged to supply steam to said steam iron at a higher pressure than steam supplied to said inner housing.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a laundry treatment apparatus and a control method thereof. In more detail, the present application relates to a laundry treatment apparatus capable of performing a refresh operation of sterilizing, de-wrinkling, de-odorizing, drying, etc. of laundry by supplying steam and hot air to the laundry and a control method thereof. BACKGROUND

[0002] If the laundry is washed with water and detergent frequently, a problem of damage or deformation of the laundry can occur.

[0003] To solve this problem, a laundry treatment apparatus has been developed, which sprays steam to the laundry in a state where the laundry is not wetted and evaporates it with high-temperature air to remove wrinkles or odors of the laundry or can perform a so-called refresh operation of reordering fiber arrangement of the laundry (Refer to Korean Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 10-2021-0144451)

[0004] The laundry treatment apparatus can also be named as a laundry refresh machine, which can be provided to be placed directly in a state where the laundry is not folded or crumpled and to supply one or more of hot air and steam to the laundry.

[0005] A laundry treatment apparatus has also been developed in the related art, which makes the surface of the placed laundry more actively exposed to steam / hot air by vibrating the placed laundry and can shake off dust or foreign substances adhered to the laundry (Korean Patent Registration No. 10-1285890)

[0006] In recent years, a laundry treatment apparatus has been developed, which is provided with a steam iron that is led to the placed laundry, thereby being capable of directly heating the surface of the laundry or capable of pressing the laundry. Thereby, the user can place the laundry inside the laundry treatment apparatus and then refresh the laundry using the refresh operation, or can place the laundry inside the laundry treatment apparatus or behind the door or wall to take out the steam iron and directly supply steam and heat to the laundry, thereby being capable of removing wrinkles of the laundry.

[0007] Recently, a laundry treatment apparatus having a mechanical chamber has been developed, which includes a refresh module T that supplies hot air to the placed laundry and re-circulates it to condense the dried water in the laundry, and an iron module S having a steam iron I that directly supplies steam and hot air to the surface of the laundry.

[0008] In this laundry treatment apparatus, a steam supply part T1 that supplies steam to a space where the laundry is placed and a steam generation part S1 that supplies steam to the steam iron are separately provided, and a water supply pump T2 that supplies water to the steam supply part T1 and a high-pressure pump S2 that supplies water to the steam generation part S1 are separately provided.

[0009] Thus, the existing laundry treatment apparatus has an advantage of being able to selectively supply steam to a space in which laundry is placed and a steam iron I, but has a disadvantage of having a plurality of configurations for heating water and a configuration for supplying water also having a plurality of configurations.

[0010] Thus, the existing laundry treatment apparatus has a fundamental problem including a productivity problem in which all of the respective configurations are required to be arranged in a mechanical room, thus delaying a manufacturing process and increasing a setup cost, a management problem in which configurations required for maintenance and repair are further increased and maintenance becomes difficult, a control problem in which excessive current is consumed in the case of separately controlling or simultaneously controlling the steam supply part T1 and the steam generation part S1, and the like.

[0011] In addition, the steam supply part T1 generally sprays steam at a lower pressure than the steam generation part S1, and thus the existing laundry treatment apparatus always supplies only steam at a lower pressure than the steam iron I in a placement space in which laundry is placed, and thus there is also a problem in that it is difficult to supply sufficient steam to laundry or laundry needs a long time to be exposed to sufficient steam.

[0012] In addition, the existing laundry treatment apparatus has a problem in that it is not possible or difficult to additionally provide an iron module in the case in which the steam iron is not initially installed. SUMMARY

[0013] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention has been made to solve the problem of providing a laundry treatment apparatus capable of saving a manufacturing process of a laundry treatment apparatus including an inner case in which laundry is placed and a steam iron that sprays steam and also capable of reducing manufacturing costs.

[0015] The present invention has been made to solve the problem of providing a laundry treatment apparatus capable of making setup and maintenance simple even though a care module that circulates air inside an inner case and an iron module T having a steam iron are included.

[0016] The present invention has been made to solve the problem of providing a laundry treatment apparatus capable of simplifying a configuration of a mechanical room in which a care module and an iron module are provided.

[0017] The present invention has been made to solve the problem of providing a laundry treatment apparatus capable of also adjusting a pressure of steam sprayed to the inner case.

[0018] The present invention has been made to solve the problem of providing a laundry treatment apparatus capable of easily additionally installing an iron module at a sales site even though the iron module is not initially provided.

[0019] TECHNICAL SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM

[0020] To solve the above problems, the present application can provide a laundry treating apparatus generating steam supplied to a laundry placed and steam supplied to an iron by one heating part.

[0021] The laundry treating apparatus of the present application can be provided such that the heating part supplies steam to the inside of the inner case in which the laundry is placed, and the heating part can also supply steam to the steam iron.

[0022] The heating part can be disposed in the circulation duct.

[0023] The heating part can be disposed between the upper portion of the circulation duct and the bottom surface of the inner case, and the steam iron can be disposed at the left or right side of the circulation duct.

[0024] The heating part can be connected to both the steam iron and the inner case.

[0025] The laundry treating apparatus can further include a guide pipe guiding steam supplied from the heating part to the inner case, and a delivery pipe guiding steam supplied from the heating part to the steam iron.

[0026] The heating part can be provided to supply steam having different pressures to the guide pipe and the delivery pipe.

[0027] The heating part can be provided such that the pressure of steam supplied to the steam iron is higher than the pressure of steam supplied to the inner case.

[0028] The heating part can further include a valve part selectively opening the guide pipe and the delivery pipe.

[0029] The valve part can be controlled to close the delivery pipe if the guide pipe is opened, and to close the guide pipe if the delivery pipe is opened.

[0030] The heating part can further include a containing body containing and heating water, and a pressure sensor sensing the pressure of steam generated in the containing body.

[0031] The valve part can be controlled to allow the steam generated in the heating part to be supplied to the steam iron and to block the steam from being supplied to the inner case if the pressure of the steam is equal to or greater than a set value.

[0032] The valve part can be controlled to block the steam from being supplied to the steam iron and to supply the steam to the inner case if the pressure of the steam is less than a set value.

[0033] The heating part can include an outlet through which steam is discharged from the containing body, and a branch pipe connecting the outlet, the guide pipe, and the delivery pipe.

[0034] The pressure sensor and the valve can be integrated into the branch pipe.

[0035] The pressure sensor can be positioned upstream of the valve section.

[0036] The valve section may include: a first valve section, coupled to the branch pipe, for selectively opening and closing the guide pipe; and a second valve section, coupled to the branch pipe, for selectively opening and closing the delivery pipe.

[0037] The valve can be configured to open the guide tube at a first temperature or a first pressure, and to open the delivery tube at a second temperature or a second pressure.

[0038] The second temperature is set higher than the first temperature, and the second pressure is set higher than the first pressure.

[0039] The second valve is controlled to open at a second temperature or a second pressure; the first valve is controlled to open at a first temperature or a first pressure; the second temperature can be set to be higher than the first temperature, and the second pressure can be set to be higher than the first pressure.

[0040] The garment handling device may also include a water supply tank detachably disposed in front of the circulation pipe and storing water, and a water supply pump that supplies the water stored in the water supply tank to the heating unit.

[0041] The heating element can be configured to receive water from the water supply tank and generate steam to supply the steam iron and the inner housing.

[0042] Invention Effects

[0043] The present invention has the effect of saving manufacturing steps of a garment handling device, including an inner shell for holding clothes and a steam iron for spraying steam, and also reducing manufacturing costs.

[0044] The present invention has the effect of simplifying setup and maintenance, even when including a care module that circulates air inside the inner housing and an iron module T with a steam iron.

[0045] The present invention has the effect of simplifying the configuration of the machine room, which is equipped with a nursing module and an ironing module.

[0046] The present invention has the effect of adjusting the pressure of the steam injected into the inner shell.

[0047] This invention has the advantage that even if the iron module is not initially provided, the iron module can be easily added and installed at the place of sale. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1This is a diagram showing the appearance of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the interior of the housing of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the exterior of the machine room.

[0051] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the structure of the mechanical chamber of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the rear of the machine room.

[0053] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the circulation pipes and base structure in the mechanical chamber of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the interior of the circulation pipe of the garment processing device of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the structure of the control section of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, which is mounted on the base.

[0056] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the water supply and drainage system of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the installation structure of the heating unit that receives water from the water supply tank.

[0058] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the heating element.

[0059] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the structure for supplying water to the heating unit.

[0060] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the flow path structure of the steam nozzle.

[0061] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the drainage structure of the garment handling device of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the structure of the drain bucket of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing in detail the structure of the counterflow section of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing the lower part of the bottom surface of the inner shell.

[0065] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the structure in which the water supply structure and the water supply unit are connected.

[0066] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the premise structure in which the drainage structure and the drainage section can be connected.

[0067] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing the structure in which the drainage structure and the drainage section are connected.

[0068] Figure 21 This is a diagram showing the structure and layout of the iron module and control unit.

[0069] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating an additional embodiment of the power cord and steam supplying the steam iron.

[0070] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating an additional embodiment of the storage module.

[0071] Figure 24 This is a diagram showing a steam iron housed within the main body of the cover.

[0072] Figure 25 This is a diagram showing the way a steam iron is drawn in and out.

[0073] Figure 26 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a control method for supplying steam to a steam iron and its inner casing via a heating element.

[0074] Figure 27 This diagram illustrates an additional control method for supplying steam to the steam iron and its inner casing via a heating element. Detailed Implementation

[0075] The embodiments disclosed in this specification will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, even different embodiments will be given the same or similar reference numerals for the same or similar structures, and their description will be replaced by the initial description. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular expressions used in this specification include the plural expressions. Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of related well-known technologies are omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions might obscure the spirit of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. It should also be noted that the accompanying drawings are only for ease of understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification and should not be construed as limiting the technical concepts disclosed in this specification.

[0076] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the appearance of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention.

[0077] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may include a housing 100 forming the exterior and a door 120 rotatably coupled to the housing 100.

[0078] The door 120 may include a main body 121 forming the front of the housing 100 and a mounting body 122 extending from one side of the main body 121 and providing a display for displaying information about the garment handling device.

[0079] The housing 100 can be configured such that its height is greater than its width in the left-right direction and its thickness in the front-back direction. Therefore, the garment handling device can also place long garments inside the housing 100 in an unfolded state.

[0080] The main body 122 can form a step and extend from the main body 121 toward the rear of the box 100.

[0081] The mounting body 122 may be formed of a different material or a different color than the main body 122. Alternatively, the mounting body 122 may be formed of a translucent material that allows light emitted from the display to pass through.

[0082] A handle 123 may be provided in the area where the main body 122 and the main body 121 form a step.

[0083] The handle 123 can extend from one side of the main body 121 parallel to the main body 121 toward the front of the mounting body 122. As a result, the handle 123 can overlap the mounting body 122 at least partially in the front-back direction, forming a space for the user to hold.

[0084] The housing 100 and the door 120 may be made of metal.

[0085] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the interior of the housing of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention.

[0086] An inner shell 200 may be provided inside the box 100. The inner shell 200 has a storage space 220 for storing clothes and an opening 210 for storing clothes at the front.

[0087] The inner housing 200 is a cuboid shape with an opening at the front, and its height can be less than the height of the box 100. This ensures that an area for the machine room 300 (described later) can be provided in the lower part of the box 100.

[0088] The inner shell 200 can be configured such that its height is greater than its width and thickness. Therefore, the garment can be placed inside the receiving space 220 without being folded or wrinkled.

[0089] The inner shell 200 may be made of a series of plastic resins, and may be made of a series of reinforced plastic resins that will not be deformed by air at a temperature higher than normal or heated air (hereinafter referred to as hot air) as well as steam or moisture.

[0090] A placement portion for placing clothing into the receiving space 220 may be provided on the upper part of the inner surface of the inner housing 200. The placement portion may be in the shape of a clothes hanger and may be fixed to the upper surface of the inner housing 200. Due to the placement portion, the clothing can be arranged in an unfolded state within the receiving space 220 and in a state of suspension in the air.

[0091] The placement section can be provided in a plurality of portions along the width direction of the inner housing 200. Thus, a plurality of garments can be placed separately inside the inner housing 200.

[0092] The placement part can be a movable hanger that reciprocates or rotates along the width direction inside the inner housing 200. The garment handling device of the present invention allows the placement part to shake the garment inside the inner housing, enabling the garment to vibrate and shake off foreign objects and dust within the receiving space 220, and also removing wrinkles formed on the garment.

[0093] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may have a machine chamber 300, which is provided with one or more of high-temperature air, heated air (hereinafter, hot air) and steam to supply the containing space 220, or various devices capable of purifying or dehumidifying the external air of the housing 100.

[0094] The mechanical chamber 300 can be configured to be separate or partitioned from the inner shell 200, and connected to the accommodating space 220.

[0095] The machine compartment 300 can be arranged in the lower part of the inner shell 200. Thus, if hot air and steam with a low specific gravity are supplied to the inner shell 200, the hot air and steam can naturally rise in the accommodating space 220 and be supplied to the placed clothing.

[0096] The inner housing 200 can be separated from the machine room 300 by the bottom surface 230. However, the bottom surface 230 may have a plurality of through holes that communicate with the machine room 300.

[0097] Therefore, the inner housing 200 may include a plurality of through holes 230 that penetrate one side and communicate with the machine room 300.

[0098] Through the through-hole 230, air from the receiving space 220 can be supplied to the machine room 300, and one or more of the hot air and steam generated in the machine room 300 can be supplied to the receiving space 220.

[0099] The through hole 230 may include an inlet hole 232 and an outlet hole 231. The inlet hole 232 penetrates the bottom surface 230 of the inner housing 200. Air inside the inner housing 200 is discharged or drawn into the machine chamber 300 through the inlet hole 232. The outlet hole 231 penetrates the lower surface of the inner housing 200. Hot air generated in the machine chamber 300 is discharged through the outlet hole 231.

[0100] The discharge port 231 can be arranged rearwardly on the lower surface of the inner housing 200. Conversely, the inlet port 232 can be arranged forward on the lower surface of the inner housing 200. This ensures a proper separation between the inlet port 231 and the discharge port 232 on the bottom surface 230 of the inner housing 200, preventing hot air supplied from the discharge port 232 from being directly discharged into the inlet port 231.

[0101] The through-hole 230 may further include a steam hole 233 to which steam generated in the heating unit 800 (described later) is supplied. The steam hole 233 may be arranged closer to the discharge hole 231 than the inlet hole 232. For example, the steam hole 233 may be arranged on one side of the discharge hole 231. This prevents steam discharged from the steam hole 233 from flowing directly into the inlet hole 232.

[0102] The door 120 can be rotatably attached to the housing 100.

[0103] The height of the door 120 can correspond to the height of the housing 100. Therefore, the door 120 can be configured to open and close the opening 210, or it can be configured to shield the machine room 300.

[0104] If the door 120 is closed, it can prevent the opening 210 and the machine room 300 from being exposed forward.

[0105] The door 120 may include a door body 121 forming the body and a sealing member 123 attached to the inner surface of the door body 121 and sealing the opening 210.

[0106] The sealing member 123 can be arranged in the area on the inner surface of the door body 121 facing the periphery of the opening 210 to seal the opening 210.

[0107] On the other hand, the door body 121 may include a protective panel 122, which shields and protects the machine room 300 at the lower part of the sealing member 123 that seals the opening 210.

[0108] The sealing member 123 may also be configured to extend further downward than the opening 210, sealing the front periphery of the machine room 300.

[0109] The door 120 may include a protrusion 125 that protrudes from the interior of the door body 121 and at least a portion of it is inserted into the opening 210.

[0110] The protrusion 125 can protrude from the door body 121 to a degree that it can be positioned in front of the inflow hole 232 when the door 120 closes the opening 210.

[0111] The protrusion 125 may have a width corresponding to the width of the opening 210. The protrusion 125 may be arranged to be closer to the lower part of the opening 210 or the bottom surface 230 of the inner housing 200 than the upper end of the door body 121.

[0112] Thus, hot air and steam arranged in the containment space 220 of the inner shell can be guided to flow into the inlet hole 232, and outflow to the outside of the opening 210 and exposure to the machine room 300 can be blocked.

[0113] The height of the protrusion 125 can be less than 1 / 3 of the height of the inner shell 200, and the thickness of the protrusion 125 protruding from the door body 121 can be less than the interval from the front corner of the bottom surface 230 to the inlet hole 232.

[0114] The door body 120 may also include a curved surface 124 extending from its inner surface toward the protrusion 125. The curved surface 124 may have a downwardly convex shape. The curved surface 124 may guide the circulation of hot air and steam supplied to the receiving space 220 within the receiving space 220.

[0115] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a pressure part 130 rotatably coupled to the inner surface of the door body 121 and capable of pressing garments, and a fixing part 140 capable of placing the garments at an upper part higher than the pressure part 130.

[0116] The pressure part 130 can rotate in the width direction of the door 120, thereby pressing down the clothing placed on the fixing part 140.

[0117] Therefore, the wrinkles of the garment can be removed by pressing the garment placed on the fixing part 140 with the pressure part 130, or the desired wrinkles can be formed on the garment.

[0118] The curved surface 124 extends from the lower part of the pressurizing part 130 toward the protrusion 125. Thus, when water condensed in clothing placed in the fixing part 140 flows along the inner surface of the pressurizing part 130 or the door body 121, it flows along the curved surface 124 and is guided to the bottom surface 230, preventing it from moving toward the opening 210 or the sealing member 123. As a result, the machine room 300 is prevented from being contaminated by water, steam, hot air, foreign objects, etc.

[0119] The exposed surface of the protrusion 125 can be arranged parallel to the back surface of the inner housing 200, and the lower surface extending from the lower part of the exposed surface can be arranged parallel to the bottom surface 230 of the inner housing.

[0120] The exposed surface of the protrusion 125 may be provided with a through surface 126 that allows air to pass through. A duct for air flow may also be provided in the space formed by the protrusion 125, the curved surface 124 and the door body 121.

[0121] The door body 121 may have a communication hole in the area corresponding to the pressurizing part 130 on its inner surface, which communicates with the pipe.

[0122] Thus, hot air and steam flowing in the inner housing 200 flow into the through hole 126 and out to the connecting hole, thereby drying clothes placed in the pressurized part 130 or circulating air inside the inner housing 200.

[0123] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the exterior of the machine room 300.

[0124] The machine room 300 may be equipped with a device for supplying one or more of hot air and steam to the inner housing 200.

[0125] The machine chamber 300 needs to be configured to receive the water required to generate the steam and collect the steam supplied to the inner housing 200 or the water condensed in the clothing. For this purpose, the machine chamber 300 may include a water supply tank 301 for storing the water required to generate the steam and a drain tank 302 for collecting the water condensed inside the clothing processing device.

[0126] The water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302 can be arranged in front of the machine room 300. This makes it easy for the user to fill the water supply tank 301 or empty the drain tank 302, and the laundry handling device can be arranged without being restricted by the location of the water source and sewer.

[0127] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may further include an iron module S having a steam iron for supplying steam to the surface of the garment. The iron module S may be disposed in the machine chamber.

[0128] The iron module S may include at least one of a steam iron 1300 capable of spraying or supplying heat and steam to the surface of clothing and a storage unit 1200 for storing the steam iron 1300 inside the machine room 300.

[0129] The storage unit 1200 may include a storage body 1210 installed in the machine room 300 and providing space for storing the steam iron 1300, and an open surface 1220 provided on the front of the storage body 1210 for the steam iron 1300 to be led out and introduced.

[0130] The steam iron 1300 can be extended from the front of the storage body 1210, thereby extending from the machine chamber 300. The steam iron 1300 can be configured such that, when extended from the front of the machine chamber 300, it reaches the surface of the clothing placed on the fixing part 140 or the placement part.

[0131] The steam iron 1300 may be configured to extend from the machine compartment 300 into the interior of the receiving space 220 or to the back of the door 120. For example, the steam iron 1300 may be configured to transfer heat and steam to an upper part that is higher than half the height of the inner housing 200, i.e., the upper end of the pressure section 130 of the door 120.

[0132] For example, the steam iron 1300 can reach the placement portion or the fixing portion 140. Alternatively, the steam iron 1300 can be configured such that, if drawn from the storage portion 1200, it moves to the upper surface of the receiving space 220 or the upper end of the inner surface of the door 120.

[0133] The steam iron 1300 can be configured to contact or be close to the surface of the garment, thereby directly spraying heat and steam onto the surface of the garment.

[0134] The steam iron 1300 can be configured to heat the surface of clothing or to spray steam onto the surface of clothing. The steam iron 1300 can be a general steam iron or a general steam generator. The steam iron 1300 can be of any configuration as long as it can remove wrinkles from clothing.

[0135] The garment L, fixed to the placement or fixing part 140, can be supported on the inner surface of the door 120 or the inner surface of the inner housing 200, thereby being exposed to one or more of the heat and steam supplied from the steam iron 1300. During this process, the garment L can be cared for or wrinkles can be removed.

[0136] The steam iron 1300 needs to be led out from the machine chamber 300 to the clothes placed in the inner housing 200 or door 120, so the iron module S can be exposed to the front of the machine chamber 300.

[0137] For example, the front of the iron module S can be arranged on one side of the water supply tank 301 or the drain tank 302, and the two sides can be arranged inside the mechanical surface 300.

[0138] The water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302 can be shared by the nursing module T (described later) and the iron module S, which circulate air inside the inner housing 200.

[0139] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the structure of the mechanical chamber of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention.

[0140] The interior of the machine room 300 may include a care module T and an ironing module S. The care module T is formed by a configuration capable of supplying hot air and steam to clothing placed in the housing space 220 or circulating the air inside the housing space or the air outside the housing. The ironing module S includes the steam iron 1300.

[0141] The nursing module T may include all devices and components capable of supplying one or more of hot air and steam into the interior of the inner housing 200.

[0142] Specifically, the nursing module T may include a base portion 310 that provides space for supporting or arranging the aforementioned various devices in the machine room 300; a circulation duct 320 disposed on or extending from the base portion 310 and providing a flow path for the movement of air inside the inner housing 200 or outside the housing 200; an air supply portion 350 installed on the circulation duct 320 and providing power for the movement of the air; a heat supply portion 340 that cools and heats the air moving along the circulation duct 320 to generate hot air; and a heating portion 800 supported on the base portion 310 or installed on the circulation duct 320 and supplying steam to the interior of the inner housing 200.

[0143] The base portion 310 can be configured as a plate capable of mounting various devices.

[0144] The circulation pipe 320 forms a flow path for air flowing in from the outside of the inner shell 200 or the box 100, and can be configured as a shell shape with an open top surface.

[0145] The heat supply unit 340 may include a heat exchanger and a compressor. The heat exchanger is arranged inside the circulation pipe 320 to cool the air to condense moisture and reheat the air. The compressor is arranged outside the circulation pipe 320 and receives refrigerant from or supplies refrigerant to the heat exchanger.

[0146] The nursing module T may also include an external air duct 370, which is located in front of the circulation duct 320, and draws in external air and guides it into the circulation duct 320.

[0147] The circulation pipe 320 can be configured to communicate with the external air pipe 370 and selectively draw in external air.

[0148] The water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302 can be detachably attached to the front of the circulation pipe 320. For example, the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302 can be installed on the upper part of the external air duct 370.

[0149] The circulation pipe 320 can be combined with the base portion 310, or it can be integrally formed with the base portion 310. For example, the base portion 310 and the circulation pipe 320 can be manufactured simultaneously by injection molding.

[0150] The nursing module T may include a base cover 360 configured to connect the circulation pipe 320 and the inlet hole 232.

[0151] The base cover 360 can be attached to the upper part of the circulation pipe 320 to guide the air drawn in from the inlet hole 232 into the interior of the circulation pipe 320.

[0152] The base cover 360 can cover the upper surface of the circulation pipe 320 to prevent air inside the circulation pipe 320 from being discharged to the outside. The lower part of the base cover 360 and the upper surface of the circulation pipe 320 can form one side of the flow path of the circulation pipe 320.

[0153] The base cover 360 may include an inflow portion 362 internally, which connects the inflow hole 232 and the circulation pipe 320. The inflow portion 362 has a pipe shape and can function as an air intake pipe to deliver air from inside the inner housing 200 to the circulation pipe 320.

[0154] The heating element 800 can be configured to connect to the water supply tank 301 and receive water to generate steam. The heating element 800 can be installed in the upper part of the circulation pipe 320. Specifically, the heating element 800 can be arranged between the upper part of the circulation pipe 320 and the bottom surface of the inner shell 200.

[0155] Additionally, the heating element 800 may be arranged behind the base cover 360.

[0156] The nursing module T may further include a steam nozzle 900 that receives steam from the heating unit 800 and supplies steam to the interior of the inner housing 200. The steam nozzle 900 may be arranged between the heating unit 800 and the steam hole 233.

[0157] The steam nozzle 900 can be fixed to the bottom surface of the inner housing 200.

[0158] Water that is not discharged from the steam nozzle 900 and is condensed in the steam hole 233 can be recycled back to the heating unit 800.

[0159] Of course, the steam nozzle 900 can be omitted, or only the heating element 800 can be provided. That is, the steam nozzle 900 may not be an essential component for supplying steam to the inner housing 200.

[0160] The air supply unit 350 can be configured to connect the circulation pipe 320 and the discharge port 231.

[0161] The ironing module S can be arranged inside the machine compartment 300, to the left or right of the care module T. Specifically, the ironing module S can be arranged outside the circulation pipe 320. Thus, the ironing module S can not obstruct the airflow in the circulation pipe 320.

[0162] The iron module S can be arranged side by side along the length of the circulation pipe 320 on one side of the base portion 310.

[0163] The garment processing device of the present invention can supply steam to both the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 through a heating unit 800 and a water supply tank 301.

[0164] The heating element 900 can be configured to supply steam to both the nursing module T and the ironing module S.

[0165] That is, the nursing module T and the ironing module S can share the heating element 800. Additionally, the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 can receive steam from a single heating element 800.

[0166] Specifically, the heating unit 900 can be configured to receive and contain water from the water supply tank 301, and after generating steam by heating the water, supply the steam to both the receiving space 220 inside the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300.

[0167] Therefore, the garment processing apparatus of the present invention can omit either the configuration for heating water to supply steam to the inner housing 200 or the configuration for heating water to supply steam to the steam iron 1300. As a result, the internal structure of the machine chamber 300 of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention can be simplified, excessive power consumption due to multiple heating units heating water can be prevented, and manufacturing processes and production costs can be saved.

[0168] The heating unit 800 of the present invention may further include a valve 890 that selectively supplies the generated steam to the steam iron 1300 and the inner housing 200.

[0169] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can determine whether to supply steam to the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 by controlling the valve 890.

[0170] As a result, even when steam is generated in the heating element 800, it is possible to prevent it from being supplied arbitrarily to the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300.

[0171] The valve section 890 may include a first valve section 891 that determines whether to supply steam to the inner housing 200 and a second valve section 892 that determines whether to supply steam to the steam iron 1300.

[0172] The heating unit 800 may also include a guide pipe 1500 for guiding the generated steam to the inner housing 200 and a delivery pipe 1400 for guiding the generated steam to the steam iron 1300.

[0173] The guide pipe 1500 and the delivery pipe 1400 can be configured arbitrarily, as long as the steam supplied from the heating unit 800 can be directly guided to the end. For example, the guide pipe 1500 and the delivery pipe 1400 can be in the shape of a tube, or they can be formed of a flexible material such as a hose.

[0174] The first valve 891 can be configured to open and close the guide pipe 1500, and the second valve 892 can be configured to open and close the delivery pipe 1400.

[0175] The valve section 890 opening the guide pipe 1500 can refer to a series of states in which the guide pipe 1500 is connected to the heating section 800 and can receive steam. The valve section 890 closing the guide pipe 1500 can refer to a series of states in which the connection between the guide pipe 1500 and the heating section 800 is blocked and steam cannot be received.

[0176] For example, the valve section 890 may be used to directly open or close the guide pipe 1500, or to open or close the outlet of the heating section or an additional branch pipe, in order to indirectly open or close the guide pipe 1500.

[0177] The valve 890 opening the delivery pipe 1400 can refer to a series of states in which the delivery pipe 1400 is connected to the heating unit 800 and can receive steam. The valve 890 closing the delivery pipe 1400 can refer to a series of states in which the connection between the delivery pipe 1400 and the heating unit 800 is blocked and steam cannot be received.

[0178] For example, the valve section 890 may be used to directly open or close the delivery pipe 1400, or to open or close the outlet of the heating section or additional branch pipes, etc., to indirectly open or close the delivery pipe 1400.

[0179] The guide tube 1500 and the delivery tube 1400 can be arranged completely separately from one end to the other.

[0180] Alternatively, the first valve portion 891 and the second valve portion 892 can be arranged completely independently. In this case, the first valve portion 891 can be directly connected to the guide pipe 1500 to open and close the guide pipe 1500, and the second valve portion 892 can be directly connected to the delivery pipe 1400 to directly open and close the delivery pipe 1400.

[0181] Alternatively, the first valve portion 891 and the second valve portion 892 may be configured to be connected to a branch pipe 825 communicating with the guide pipe 1500, and thus be able to communicate with each other. The guide pipe 1500 and the delivery pipe 1400 may also be connected to and fixed to the branch pipe 825 respectively.

[0182] The first valve section 891 and the second valve section 892 can selectively open and close the branch pipe 825.

[0183] For example, the first valve 891 can be configured to be connected to the branch pipe 825, so that the branch pipe 825 and the guide pipe 1500 are selectively connected, thereby opening and closing the guide pipe 1500. The second valve 892 can be configured to be connected to the branch pipe 825, so that the branch pipe 825 and the delivery pipe 1400 are selectively connected, thereby opening and closing the delivery pipe 1400.

[0184] The valve section 890 may be a solenoid valve, which can be controlled by the main control section 700 described later.

[0185] Regardless of where it is coupled to and arranged, the valve 890 can be controlled to close the delivery pipe 1400 if the guide pipe 1500 is opened, and to close the guide pipe 1500 if the delivery pipe 1400 is opened.

[0186] The valve 890 can be controlled to prevent the delivery pipe 1400 and the guide pipe 1500 from being simultaneously connected to the heating unit 800. That is, the valve 890 can be controlled to open only one of the delivery pipe 1400 and the guide pipe 1500 to supply steam.

[0187] Thus, steam is supplied centrally to only one of the delivery pipe 1400 and the guide pipe 1500, thereby ensuring the minimum amount of steam required for garment processing.

[0188] The detailed composition of the branch pipe 825, etc., will be explained later.

[0189] Furthermore, the heating section 800 having a branch pipe 825 is only one embodiment; the heating section 800 may also have a plurality of outlets. This will also be explained later.

[0190] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the rear of the machine room.

[0191] The air supply unit 350 may include an air supply fan 353 that provides power to move the air inside the circulation duct 320 in one direction, and a fan housing 351 that houses the air supply fan 353 and is incorporated into or extends from the circulation duct 320.

[0192] The air supply unit 350 may include a discharge pipe 352 configured to connect the circulation pipe 320 and the discharge port 232.

[0193] The discharge pipe 352 can extend from the fan cover 351 toward the discharge hole 232 with a cross-sectional area corresponding to the discharge hole 232.

[0194] As a result, air inside the inner housing 200 can flow in through the base cover 360 and be resupplyed to the inner housing 200 via the fan setting 350 after passing through the circulation pipe 320.

[0195] The heat supply unit 340 may include a compressor 343 disposed on the base portion 310 and exchanging heat with the air flowing in the circulation pipe 320. The compressor 343 may be arranged on the left or right side of the circulation pipe 320, and may be arranged between the circulation pipe 320 and the iron module S.

[0196] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the circulation pipes and base structure in the mechanical chamber of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention.

[0197] The base portion 310 can form the lower surface of the garment handling device.

[0198] The base portion 310 may include a base bottom 311 forming a support surface. The base bottom 311 may form the lower surface of the garment handling device.

[0199] Of course, the base bottom 311 can be placed on the upper surface of the bottom surface of the box 100, which is additionally configured to form the lower surface of the garment handling device.

[0200] The base portion 310 may be integrally formed with the circulation pipe 320, which forms at least a portion of the flow path for air movement. The circulation pipe 320 may extend upward from the bottom 311 of the base.

[0201] The circulation pipe 320 may include a pipe body 321 extending from the bottom 311 of the base and forming a flow path, a heat exchanger mounting section 3212 providing space for an evaporator 341 or a condenser 343 inside the pipe body 321, and an air exhaust section 323 located behind the pipe body 321 and supplying air from the pipe body 321 to the air supply section 350.

[0202] The air exhaust section 323 may have a tube shape extending rearward from the pipe body 321. The diameter of the air exhaust section 323 may be smaller than the width of the pipe body 321.

[0203] The air exhaust section 323 can be connected to the air supply section 350. The air exhausted from the air exhaust section 323 can be guided into the interior of the inner housing 200 through the air supply section 350.

[0204] The circulation duct 320 may further include an external air intake 322 formed through the front of the duct body 321. The external air intake 322 may be configured to communicate with the external air duct 370. The external air duct 370 may be positioned and supported in front of the external air intake 322.

[0205] The circulation duct 320 may be equipped with a damper for opening and closing the external air intake 322. By opening and closing the damper, external air can be allowed or blocked from flowing into the circulation duct 320.

[0206] The base portion 310 may include a compressor mounting portion 312 that provides space for mounting the compressor 343. The compressor mounting portion 312 may be formed on one side of the base bottom 311 and integrally formed with the base bottom 311.

[0207] The compressor mounting portion 312 may also have a protrusion capable of supporting the compressor 343. The compressor mounting portion 312 may be arranged offset towards the rear of the base portion 310. The compressor mounting portion 312 may be arranged to overlap at least partially with the air discharge portion 323 in the width direction.

[0208] The compressor mounting section 312 may be provided with a buffer member to reduce vibrations transmitted from the compressor 343. The buffer member may be fixed to the protrusion.

[0209] The base portion 310 may be provided with a compressor mounting portion 313, and the compressor 343, which supplies refrigerant to the heat exchangers 341 and 343, is mounted on the compressor mounting portion 313. The compressor mounting portion 313 may be arranged outside the circulation pipe 320.

[0210] The iron module S can be arranged on the left or right side of the circulation pipe 320. However, the iron module S can be arranged separately from the base portion 310 and also separate from the bottom surface of the machine chamber 300.

[0211] Therefore, the additional base structure that supports the iron module S from the bottom can be omitted in the machine room 300.

[0212] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the interior of the circulation pipe of the garment processing device of the present invention.

[0213] The circulation pipe 320 can extend from the bottom of the base upwards to form a flow path for airflow.

[0214] The heat supply unit 340 may include an evaporator 341 for cooling and condensing air moving along the circulation pipe 320, a compressor 343 for receiving and compressing refrigerant from the evaporator 341 for heating, and a condenser 342 for receiving refrigerant from the compressor 343 for heating air moving along the circulation pipe 320.

[0215] The heat supply unit 340 may also include an expansion valve that reduces the temperature of the refrigerant by expanding the refrigerant that has passed through the condenser 342.

[0216] The heat supply unit 340 may include an evaporator 341 consisting of a heat exchanger disposed inside the circulation pipe 320 and used to cool and dehumidify the air flowing into the circulation pipe 320; a condenser 343 consisting of a heat exchanger used to heat the air passing through the evaporator 341 to form hot air; a compressor 343 that supplies refrigerant to the condenser 343 for heat exchange with the air and is disposed outside the circulation pipe 320; and an expansion valve 344 that expands the refrigerant passing through the condenser 343 to cool it.

[0217] The evaporator 341 and condenser 342 can be arranged inside the circulation pipe 320, and the compressor 343 can be arranged outside the circulation pipe 320.

[0218] The circulation pipe 320 may include a heat exchanger mounting section 3212 that provides space for equipping an evaporator 341 and a condenser 342. The heat exchanger mounting section 3212 may be located inside the pipe body 321.

[0219] The upper surface of the pipe body 321 can be opened. The condenser 343 and the evaporator 341 can be inserted and installed through the opening of the pipe body 321.

[0220] The opening of the pipe body 321 can be covered by the base cover 360, and the base cover 360 and the pipe body 321 can form a flow path for air movement inside the circulation flow path 320.

[0221] The front surface of the main pipe body 321 can be separated from the front end of the base bottom 311 and arranged rearward. Thus, the base bottom 311 can ensure the installation and support of one or more of the aforementioned water supply tank 30, drain tank 40, and external air duct 370.

[0222] On the other hand, since the pipe body 321 and the base portion 310 are integrally formed, the height of the heat exchanger mounting portion 3212 can be ensured for a longer period of time, and the height of the condenser 343 and the evaporator 341 can be increased accordingly.

[0223] As a result, the width of the condenser 343 and evaporator 341 in the front-to-back direction can be shortened, thereby reducing the number of refrigerant pipes passing through the condenser and evaporator. Additionally, it has the effect of reducing airflow losses through the condenser and evaporator.

[0224] On the other hand, the sum of the lengths of the evaporator 341 and the condenser 343 can be less than the length of the heat exchanger mounting section 3212. Therefore, the longitudinal length of the heat exchanger mounting section 3212 can be equal to or less than half the length of the pipe body 321.

[0225] The air supply section 350 can be arranged overlapping the condenser 343 or the evaporator 341 in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, air passing through the evaporator 341 and the condenser 343 can flow into the air supply section 350 without any bends in the flow path. That is, the air flowing into the circulation duct 320 does not encounter any bends in the flow path as it moves to the air supply section 350, thereby minimizing flow losses.

[0226] The length of the iron module S can be greater than the length of the circulation pipe 320.

[0227] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the structure of the control section of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, which is mounted on the base.

[0228] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a main control unit 700, which supplies power to or controls the heat supply unit 340 and the heating unit 800 of the care module T.

[0229] In addition, the main control unit 700 can also control the iron module S at the same time.

[0230] On the other hand, the main control unit 700 can be configured to directly control the iron module S, or it can communicate with an independent control unit that controls the iron module S to indirectly control the iron module S. This embodiment will be described later. When the main control unit 700 indirectly controls the iron module S, it is possible to prevent the size or volume of the main control unit 700 from being unnecessarily increased. That is, the garment handling device omitting the iron module S and the main control unit 700 having the garment handling device of the iron module S can be compatible with the same specifications.

[0231] The main control unit 700 can be arranged inside the machine room 300. This allows the volume of the inner housing 200 to be maximized.

[0232] The main control unit 700 can be mounted on the base unit 310.

[0233] The main control unit 700 can be arranged outside the circulation pipe 320.

[0234] For example, the main control unit 700 may be arranged on the left or right side of the circulation pipe 320.

[0235] For example, the base portion 310 may have a control portion setting portion 312 at the lower part of the circulation pipe 320, forming a space in which the main control portion 700 can be inserted.

[0236] The base portion 310 may include a control unit mounting portion 313 for the main control unit 700. The control unit mounting portion 313 may be formed between the base bottom 311 and the circulation pipe 320. The control unit mounting portion 313 may be formed between the base bottom 311 and the bottom surface of the circulation pipe 320. The control unit mounting portion 313 may have a pipe shape with one side open (front or rear) at the lower part of the circulation pipe 320.

[0237] The main control unit 700 can be configured to connect to an external power source and receive power, and can supply power to all electrically controlled components such as the compressor 343, the heating unit 800, and the blower fan 353.

[0238] In addition, the main control unit 700 controls all electrically controlled components such as the compressor 343, the heating unit 800, and the air blower 353, thereby enabling the execution of various procedures and options for processing clothing.

[0239] If the main control unit 700 is inserted into and supported by the control unit mounting portion 312, vibrations or impacts applied to the main control unit 700 can be buffered. Furthermore, the main control unit 700 is located close to the electrical components constituting the care module T, thus minimizing the occurrence of control errors such as noise.

[0240] Furthermore, when the heating unit 800 is arranged at the upper part of the circulation pipe 320, the main control unit 700 is arranged at the lower part of the circulation pipe 320. Therefore, the circulation pipe 320 can be arranged in a straight pipe shape between the heating unit 800 and the main control unit 700. Thus, the flow resistance of the air passing through the circulation pipe 320 can be minimized.

[0241] The base portion 310 can be modularly configured with the circulation pipe 320, the external air pipe 370, the heating unit 800, the main control unit 700, and the heat supply unit 340. Thus, the base portion 310 can be extended forward or backward from the machine room 300, allowing for easy installation and maintenance.

[0242] Figure 8 (a) is a diagram showing the configuration of the main control unit 700 disposed in the control unit setting unit 313.

[0243] The main control unit 700 may be a PCB substrate, but is not limited thereto, and may be various devices used for control.

[0244] The main control unit 700 can be inserted into and disposed in the control unit mounting unit 313 located at the lower part of the circulation pipe 320. The bottom surface of the circulation pipe 320 can form the top surface of the control unit mounting unit 313. The control unit mounting unit 313 can be arranged at a position lower than the air exhaust unit 323.

[0245] The control unit setting part 313 can be integrally formed with the bottom of the base 311. The control unit setting part 313 can be formed as a recessed space in the lower part of the circulation pipe during the formation of the circulation pipe 320 in the base part 310.

[0246] The main control unit 700 can be introduced into the control unit setting unit 313 from the rear to the front in a sliding manner.

[0247] A bracket 3131 may also be provided on the surface of the main control unit 700 to surround the control unit. The bracket 3131 is arranged above and below the control unit to prevent foreign matter from flowing into the control unit.

[0248] Furthermore, the bracket 3131 transmits heat or vibration to the main control unit 700, thereby preventing damage to the circuit board inside the main control unit 700. The bracket 3131 may be formed of a metallic material.

[0249] Figure 8 (b) is a diagram showing the state in which a control unit is installed in the control unit setting section.

[0250] As shown in the figure, the main control unit 700 can be configured to form a predetermined angle with the bottom 311 of the base. For example, the main control unit 700 can be arranged to tilt towards the water storage unit 326. Thus, when water flows out to the upper part of the main control unit 700, the water can quickly leave the main control unit 700.

[0251] The main control unit 700 may include a support member 3132 that protrudes to the side.

[0252] The control unit mounting portion 313 may include ribs 3134 protruding from both sides of the mounting portion. The support member 3132 of the control unit may be placed on the upper side of the ribs 3134.

[0253] The support member 3132 of the control unit can support the overall load of the main control unit 700. If the support member 3132 of the control unit is supported on the upper side of the rib 3134, the main control unit 700 can be separated from the bottom of the base 311 by a specified distance.

[0254] The rib 3134 can be integrally formed with the base portion 310. The rib 3134 is formed together with the base portion 310 during injection molding, so that it can be integrally set with the base bottom 311, circulation pipe 320, etc.

[0255] A protruding protrusion 3133 may be provided on the front side of the main control unit 700. Additionally, a rearwardly protruding guide may be provided on the inner side of the control unit mounting section 313. The protrusion can engage with the guide. The protrusion can be inserted into the guide. When the control unit is introduced into the control unit mounting section, the control unit can be aligned to an accurate position by engaging the protrusion with the guide.

[0256] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the positions of the two sides of the control unit can be determined by supporting members placed on the ribs. Using this assembly process, the control unit can be precisely positioned to the control unit mounting section without the need for additional fastening components.

[0257] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the water supply and drainage system of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention.

[0258] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may include a water supply tank 301 for supplying water to the heating unit 800 and a drain tank 302 for collecting water condensed in the circulation pipe 320 or the iron module S.

[0259] The water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302 need to be selectively detachable from the machine room 300 so that the user can easily fill the water supply tank 301 with water and empty the water collected in the drain tank 302.

[0260] The mechanical compartment 300 may further include a loading / unloading section 380 disposed in front of the nursing module T and supporting the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302. The loading / unloading section 380 may be detachably connected to the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302.

[0261] The loading and unloading section 380 is formed in the shape of a plate, which can prevent the interior of the machine room 300 from being exposed.

[0262] A drainage pump 330 or similar device may be installed at the lower part of the loading and unloading section 380, and a circulation pipe 320 may be installed at the rear of the loading and unloading section 380.

[0263] The iron module S can be configured such that a portion of it extends through the loading / unloading section 380.

[0264] The iron module S can be arranged on one side of either the water supply tank 301 or the drain tank 302. Alternatively, the iron module S can be arranged outside the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302. This ensures sufficient space for the steam iron 1300.

[0265] The iron module S can be arranged closer to the water supply tank 301 than the drain tank 302. This allows for water conservation by reducing the length of the steam iron 1300 and the water supply tank 301.

[0266] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the installation structure of the heating unit that receives water from the water supply tank.

[0267] The heating element 800 can be arranged on the upper part of the circulation pipe 320.

[0268] Therefore, the heating element 800 can be arranged close to the bottom surface of the inner housing 200, thereby stably supplying steam to the inner housing 200.

[0269] The heating element 800 can be arranged between the circulation pipe 320 and the bottom surface of the inner shell 200.

[0270] The heating element 800 can be placed and supported on the base cover 360.

[0271] The base cover 360 may include an inflow body 361 attached to the upper surface of the circulation pipe 320 and communicating the inner housing 200 and the circulation pipe 320, and a shielding body 363 extending from the inflow body 361 and shielding the upper surface of the circulation pipe 320.

[0272] The inflow body 361 can be configured as a pipe, allowing the inflow hole 231 of the inner shell to communicate with the interior of the circulation pipe 320. The inflow body 361 can protrude upwards more than the shielding body 363.

[0273] The inflow body 361 can be positioned further forward than the evaporator 341 so as not to face the evaporator 341 and the condenser 343.

[0274] The inflow body 361 serves as an inflow pipe that allows air from the inner housing 200 to move towards the circulation pipe 320. The inflow body 361 may have an inflow section 362 inside for air from the inner housing 200 to pass through.

[0275] The inflow section 362 can be divided into multiple sections, and a filter can be inserted and installed at one of the sections.

[0276] The shielding body 363 may include a blocking panel 3631 that blocks the evaporator 341 and the condenser 343 from being exposed to the outside and supports the heating element 800, a power terminal 3632 that extends from the blocking panel 3631 or the inflow body 361 and supplies power to the heating element 800, and a protective panel 3632 that houses and protects one of the two sides of the heating element 800.

[0277] A plurality of reinforcing ribs may be provided on the outer surface of the protective panel 3632 to enhance rigidity. This prevents vibrations or impacts generated in the inner housing 200 or the machine room 300 from being transmitted to the heating element 800.

[0278] The heating element 800 can be placed and supported on the base cover 360.

[0279] The heating unit 800 may include a container 810 for storing the water that generates the steam.

[0280] The heating unit 800 may also include a mounting bracket 870 capable of fixing the receiving body 810 to the base cover 360.

[0281] The mounting bracket 870 can be attached to the base cover 360 and fix the receiving body 810.

[0282] The mounting bracket 870 may include a lower panel 871 that supports the lower surface of the receiving body 810 and side panels 872 that support the two sides of the receiving body 810 from the lower panel 871.

[0283] The mounting bracket 870 may further include a support panel 873 that extends in a stepped manner from the lower panel 871 and supports the bottom surface of the receiving body 810. Thus, the lower panel 871 can accommodate and support a portion of the bottom surface of the receiving body 810.

[0284] The compressor 343 may be arranged at a position lower than the heating unit 800.

[0285] The mounting bracket 870 can be configured to block the transfer of heat generated by the compressor or heat generated in the refrigerant compressed by the compressor to the heating unit 800.

[0286] The bracket 870 can also prevent the fire from transferring to the heating unit 800 in the event of a fire in the compressor 343.

[0287] On the other hand, the base cover 360 may include a fastening portion 3631 disposed on the shielding body 363 and detachably coupled to the heating part 800. The fastening portion 3631 may have a structure that is detachably coupled to a protrusion protruding from the lower part of the receiving body 810.

[0288] Therefore, even if a large amount of water is contained inside the container 810, the container 810 can be stably placed on the base cover 360.

[0289] In addition, the housing 810 is positioned higher than the circulation pipe 320, thereby reducing the distance between it and the inner shell 200 and minimizing the condensation of steam generated by the housing 810 before it reaches the inner shell 200.

[0290] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the heating element.

[0291] The heating unit 800 may include a container body 810 capable of receiving and storing water to generate steam, and a heater unit 840 housed in the container body 810 and heating the water to generate steam.

[0292] The receiving body 810 may have an integral box shape, and the receiving body 810 may have a shell shape with an opening at the top, which can accommodate the heater part 840.

[0293] The heating part 800 may further include a main cover 820, which is attached to the receiving body 810 to prevent the heater part 840 from being exposed to the outside and to prevent the water from flowing out.

[0294] The main cover 820 may be equipped with a water level sensor 850 for sensing the water level in the container 810 and a steam sensor 860 for sensing the temperature inside the container 810 or whether steam is generated inside the container 810.

[0295] The steam sensor 860 can also function as a pressure sensor to sense the pressure inside the housing 810.

[0296] The pressure sensor can be arranged upstream of the valve section 890. Therefore, the valve section 890 can be controlled to determine whether to open or close based on the pressure sensed by the pressure sensor.

[0297] Therefore, the main control unit 700 can control the valve unit 890 to open and close the guide pipe 1500 and the delivery pipe 1400 based on the pressure sensed by the steam sensor 860.

[0298] The heating unit 800 may have only one steam outlet 823. The outlet 823 may be provided in a tubular shape protruding from the receiving body 810.

[0299] For example, the outlet 823 may be provided on the main body cover 820 to prevent water from being discharged.

[0300] On the other hand, the heating unit 800 may also include a branch pipe 825 connected to an outlet 823, enabling the supply of steam to the delivery pipe 1400 and the guide pipe 1500 respectively through the outlet 823. Furthermore, a pressure sensor 860 may also be connected to and fixed to the branch pipe 825. That is, the pressure sensor 860 can be positioned at any location as long as the pressure of the steam can be sensed upstream of the valve section 890.

[0301] The branch pipe 825 may include a main pipe 8251 that provides space for steam movement, an inlet 8252 that connects the main pipe 8251 and the outlet 823, a first outlet 8253 that connects the main pipe 8251 and the guide pipe 1500, and a second outlet 8254 that connects the main pipe 8251 and the delivery pipe 1400.

[0302] The main body tube 8251 may have a tube shape and may be formed of a material with high rigidity to fix the valve part 890.

[0303] The first valve section 891 can be configured to connect with the first discharge section 8253 to open and close the first discharge section 8523. Thus, the first valve section 891 can be adjusted to allow the guide tube 1500 to selectively communicate with the heating section 800.

[0304] Furthermore, the second valve section 892 can be configured to connect to the second outlet 8254 and open / close the second discharge section 8254. Thus, the second valve section 892 can be adjusted to selectively connect the delivery pipe 1400 to the heating section 800.

[0305] As a result, if steam is generated in the heating section 800, it can flow into the main body pipe 8251. However, if the valve section 890 closes the plurality of outlets of the branch pipe 825, the supply of steam to the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 can be blocked.

[0306] The main control unit 700 can be controlled to open the valve unit 890 when the pressure inside the heating unit 800 is detected by the pressure sensor 860 to be above atmospheric pressure. This allows high-pressure and abundant steam to be supplied to the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300. As a result, steam injection time can be saved during garment care operations or wrinkle removal, and the operating time of the heater unit 840 can be shortened. Furthermore, the deodorizing and wrinkle removal performance of garments can be further improved.

[0307] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can supply high-pressure steam to the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 via the control valve section 890. Furthermore, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can set different pressures for the steam supplied to the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300.

[0308] For example, the heating unit 800 can use the valve unit 890 to ensure that the pressure of the steam supplied to the steam iron is greater than the pressure of the steam supplied to the inner shell.

[0309] Therefore, even if the delivery pipe 1400 is longer than the guide pipe 1300, steam can be fully delivered to the steam iron 1300, spraying more pressurized steam onto the surface of the garment, thereby more reliably removing wrinkles from the garment.

[0310] For example, the valve 890 can be controlled to allow the supply of steam to the steam iron and block the supply of steam to the inner housing when the pressure of the steam generated by the heating unit 800 is above a set value.

[0311] Conversely, the valve 890 can be controlled to block the supply of steam to the steam iron and supply steam to the inner housing when the pressure of the heating unit 800 or the pressure of the steam is below a set value.

[0312] That is, if the pressure of the heating unit 800 is above a set value, the first valve 891 can be controlled to close the guide tube 1500, and the second valve 892 can be controlled to open the delivery tube 1400. Conversely, if the pressure of the heating unit 800 is below the set value, the first valve 891 can open the guide tube 1500 according to the nursing operation, but the second valve 892 can prevent the delivery tube 1400 from opening at the source. The set value can be equivalent to a pressure 2 to 3 times higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0313] As a result, even with only one heating element 800, steam at different pressures can be supplied to the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 through the valve 890.

[0314] Unlike the above, in the heating section 800, the receiving body 810 can be configured as a cylindrical pressure shell with two outlets.

[0315] That is, the heating element 800 can be formed from a single metal housing 811 to withstand the pressure of steam equivalent to 2 to 3 times higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0316] Additionally, the heating unit 800 may have two outlets for steam discharge. For example, the heating unit 800 may include a first outlet 8231 for steam to be discharged from the housing body 810 and a second outlet 8232 separate from the first outlet 8231 and for steam to be discharged from the housing body 810.

[0317] Therefore, the heating section 800 of the present invention can omit the branch pipe 825.

[0318] The first outlet 8231 can be connected to the guide tube 1500, and the second outlet 8232 can be connected to the delivery tube 1400.

[0319] The first valve 891 can be configured to connect to the first outlet 8231 and open / close the guide pipe 1500, and the second valve 892 can be configured to connect to the second outlet 8232 and open / close the delivery pipe 1400.

[0320] The first valve portion 891 and the second valve portion 892 can be arranged with a distance separating the first outlet 8231 and the second outlet 8232.

[0321] Therefore, even if the steam holes of the steam iron 1300 and the inner housing 200 are arranged at different angles with respect to the heating part 800, the separation of the first outlet 8231 and the second outlet 8232 prevents the guide tube 1500 or the delivery tube 1400 from interfering with each other or bending excessively.

[0322] The control of the valve section 890 is the same as in the aforementioned embodiment.

[0323] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the structure for supplying water to the heating unit.

[0324] Steam generated inside the housing 810 can be directly supplied to the inner shell 200 through the guide pipe 1500. However, if steam is directly supplied to the inner shell 200 through the guide pipe 1500, there is a risk that the water contained in the housing 810 may also be expelled into the inner shell 200. Furthermore, the water heated in the housing 810 heats the bottom surface of the inner shell 200, potentially causing thermal damage to the inner shell 200.

[0325] To prevent this phenomenon, the heating part 800 of the present invention may further include a steam nozzle 900 that receives steam generated in the housing 810 and supplies it to the inner housing 200.

[0326] The steam nozzle 900 can be attached to the free end of the guide tube 1300.

[0327] The steam nozzle 900 can be arranged separately from the receiving body 810, and can receive only the steam generated in the receiving body 810, without receiving the water contained in the receiving body 810.

[0328] For example, the steam nozzle 900 can be positioned higher than the housing body 810 and connected by the guide pipe 1300. The valve portion 890 and the guide pipe 1300 can be positioned lower than the steam nozzle 900.

[0329] Thus, the steam generated in the container body 810 can rise due to the density difference and be supplied to the steam nozzle 900 along the steam pipe 833, which can prevent the water contained in the container body 810 from flowing into the steam pipe 833 or the steam nozzle 900 by gravity.

[0330] The steam nozzle 900 can be arranged between the bottom surface of the inner housing 200 and the receiving body 810.

[0331] On the other hand, the heating unit 800 of the present invention is configured to receive water from the water supply tank 301 and generate steam. Therefore, the clothing treatment apparatus of the present invention may include a water supply unit 880 that supplies water contained in the water supply tank 301 to the heating unit 800.

[0332] The water supply unit 880 may include a water supply pump 881 that provides pressure to supply water from the water supply tank 301 to the heating unit 800 or the steam nozzle 900, a supply pipe 882 that communicates with the water supply tank 301 and delivers water to the water supply pump 881, and a connecting pipe 883 that connects the water supply pump 880 and the steam nozzle 900.

[0333] The supply pipe 882 may be a flexible hose connecting the water supply tank 301 and the water supply pump 881, and the connecting pipe 883 may be a flexible hose connected to the water supply pump 881.

[0334] The garment handling device of the present invention can be configured to supply water contained in the water supply tank 301 to the steam nozzle 900 instead of the housing body 810.

[0335] The water supply pump 881 may not be directly connected to the housing body 810.

[0336] The steam nozzle 900 can receive water through the connecting pipe 883, and then supply water to the heating unit 800 through the water supply pipe 884. The water supply pipe 884 can be connected to the recovery pipe 824.

[0337] The steam nozzle 900 is positioned higher than the receiving body 810, so the water supplied to the steam nozzle 900 can be automatically supplied to the receiving body 810 through the water supply pipe 884.

[0338] The guide pipe 1500 for supplying steam into the steam nozzle 900 and the recovery pipe 824 for supplying water out of the steam nozzle 900 can be separate flow paths. Therefore, it is possible to prevent water supplied from the steam nozzle 900 from obstructing the movement of steam supplied from the housing 810.

[0339] On the other hand, the water supply pipe 884 can be U-shaped. That is, it can be arranged such that the height of the middle section is lower than that of the two ends of the water supply pipe 884. As a result, the water supply pipe 884 can accumulate a certain amount of water like a water seal, thereby preventing steam or water supplied from the housing 810 from flowing back in through the water supply pipe 884.

[0340] In addition, the receiving body 810 is not directly connected to the water supply pump 881, thus preventing the possibility of water flowing into the receiving body 810 flowing back to the water supply pump 881.

[0341] Furthermore, the water supply pump 881 allows a large volume of water to be supplied to the steam nozzle 900 at considerable pressure. As a result, foreign objects and bacteria remaining in the steam nozzle 900 can be flushed out by the water supplied to the steam nozzle 900 and discharged into the housing 810. Therefore, the steam nozzle 900 can always be kept clean.

[0342] On the other hand, if the steam supplied from the steam nozzle 900 is condensed, the condensed water can flow back into the receiving body 810 through the water supply pipe 884. That is, the condensate generated by the steam nozzle 900 can be recovered to the receiving body 810 in the same direction of movement as the water supplied from the water supply pump 800, and can be reused as water to generate the steam. Therefore, the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention can prevent the water level in the water supply tank 301 from dropping sharply and can prevent water waste.

[0343] The iron module S can receive steam through the heating unit 800, thus eliminating the need for a separate component that receives water or steam independently of the heating unit 800.

[0344] That is, if water is supplied to the heating unit 800 through a water supply tank 301 and a water supply pump 881, steam can be supplied from the heating unit 800 to the steam iron 1300 and the inner shell 200. Therefore, the care module T and the iron module S can share the water supply tank 301 and the water supply pump 881. As a result, the structure of the machine room 300 can be simplified.

[0345] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the flow path structure of the steam nozzle.

[0346] The steam nozzle 900 may include a supply container 910 that receives steam from the receiving body 810 or is capable of receiving and containing water from the water supply pump 880.

[0347] The supply container 910 can be configured with a shell shape having an internal space capable of receiving and containing water or steam.

[0348] The water supply pipe 881 can be connected to the supply container 910 at a position higher than the bottom surface of the supply container 910. For example, the water supply pipe 881 can be attached to the side of the supply container 910. This prevents backflow of water supplied to the supply container 910 into the water supply pipe 881.

[0349] The water supply pipe 881 can be connected to the supply container 910 at a higher position than the recovery pipe 884. For example, one end of the recovery pipe 884 can be attached to the bottom surface of the supply container 910, and the other end can be attached to the heating unit 800. Thus, the water supplied to the water supply pipe 881 can automatically flow into the recovery pipe 884.

[0350] Additionally, the recovery pipe 884 may have a U-shape to be able to contain a constant amount of water inside.

[0351] On the other hand, the recovery pipe 884 can be arranged adjacent to the water supply pipe 881. Thus, water supplied to the water supply pipe 881 can quickly flow into the receiving body 810 without remaining in the supply container 810.

[0352] On the other hand, one end of the guide tube 1500 can be connected to the lower part of the supply container 910, and the other end can be connected to the upper end of the receiving body 810 or the body cover 820. Thus, the steam generated in the receiving body 810 can be automatically supplied to the supply container 910 by density difference.

[0353] The guide pipe 1500 can be connected to a position in the supply container 910 that is higher than the recovery pipe 884. Alternatively, the guide pipe 1500 can be arranged further away from the water supply pipe 881 than the recovery pipe 884.

[0354] Thus, more water supplied to the supply container 910 can be supplied to the recovery pipe 884 without backflow to the guide pipe 1500.

[0355] The guide tube 1500 can be attached to the bottom surface of the supply container 910.

[0356] The bottom surface of the supply container 910 can be configured such that the portion where the recycling pipe 815 is attached is lower and the portion where the guide pipe 1500 is attached is higher. Therefore, a step or an inclined configuration can be formed on the bottom surface of the supply container 910.

[0357] The steam nozzle 900 may further include a container cover 920 attached to the upper part of the supply container 910. The container cover 920 may include a steam injection hole 921 extending through the upper part. The steam injection hole 921 may communicate with the interior of the inner housing 200.

[0358] The supply container 910 may have a box shape with an opening at the top, and the container lid 920 may cover the top of the supply container 910.

[0359] Steam supplied through the guide pipe 1500 can be discharged through the steam injection hole 921 and supplied into the inner housing 200.

[0360] It can be arranged between the guide pipe 1500, the steam injection hole 921, and the inner surface of the supply container 910. The steam injection hole 921 can be arranged between the water supply pipe 881 and the steam pipe 813, and between the recovery pipe 884 and the guide pipe 1500. Thus, steam that is condensed but does not exit to the steam injection hole 921 can be discharged to the recovery pipe 884 without remaining inside the supply container 910.

[0361] The steam injection hole 921 can be arranged in the center with reference to the width direction of the container cover 920.

[0362] The container lid 920 can be attached to the supply container 910 by means of hooks or other means. Therefore, additional fastening components for attaching the container lid 920 and the supply container 910 can be omitted.

[0363] On the other hand, the upper opening of the supply container 910 may facilitate the arrangement of various shapes or structures inside, and the container lid 920 may facilitate the arrangement of various structures at the bottom.

[0364] With the steam injection hole 921 as a reference, the water supply pipe 881 and the recovery pipe 884 are arranged on one side of the supply container 910, and the guide pipe 1500 is arranged on the other side of the supply container 910.

[0365] That is, the water supply pipe 881 and the recovery pipe 884 can be arranged adjacent to each other, and the guide pipe 1500 can be arranged further away from the water supply pipe 881 than the recovery pipe 884.

[0366] Therefore, water moving towards the water supply pipe 881 can be supplied to the supply container 910 along direction I. The water supplied to the supply container 910 can be immediately discharged along direction II to the recovery pipe 884 and supplied to the heating unit 800. Steam supplied from the steam pipe 813 can be supplied to the supply container 910 along direction III and discharged through the steam injection hole 921. The condensed water can be discharged along direction II to the recovery pipe 884 and resupplyed to the heating unit 800.

[0367] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the drainage structure of the garment handling device of the present invention.

[0368] In the garment processing apparatus of the present invention, if the compressor 343 and the blower fan 352 are driven, the air supplied from outside the housing 100 and the air supplied from the inner housing 200 are cooled as they pass through the evaporator 341, and the water vapor contained in the air is condensed.

[0369] Water condensed in the evaporator 341 can accumulate on the lower surface of the circulation pipe 320.

[0370] In order to collect the condensate in the evaporator 341, the clothing treatment device of the present invention may include a water storage section 326 recessed in a portion of the bottom surface of the pipe body 321.

[0371] The water storage section 326 is a recessed space in the bottom surface of the pipe body 321, and may also form one side of the control section 313.

[0372] The water storage section 326 can be formed by a downward indentation from the bottom of the circulation pipe 320.

[0373] The water storage section 326 can be integrally formed with the circulation pipe 320. When the circulation pipe 320 is injection molded on the base section 310, a portion of the bottom surface of the circulation pipe 320 can be recessed to form the water storage section 326.

[0374] At least a portion of the top surface of the water storage section 326 may be arranged parallel to the heat exchanger mounting section 313.

[0375] The base portion 310 may include a guide pipe 3263 for discharging water collected in the water storage portion 326 to the outside.

[0376] The guide pipe 3263 protrudes from the lower part of the water storage section 362 to the outside of the circulation pipe 320. The guide pipe 3263 can discharge the water stored in the water storage section to the outside of the base section. This prevents the water collected in the water storage section 326 from rotting or flowing back to the bottom of the circulation pipe 320.

[0377] The circulation pipe 320 has a partition wall 3211 extending from the inner surface of the pipe body 321. The partition wall 3211 can protrude inward from the inner wall of the circulation pipe 320 or be formed by recessing inward from the outer wall of the circulation pipe 320. The partition wall 3211 can guide the position of the heat exchangers 341 and 343 and prevent air entering the heat exchangers from bypassing them. The partition wall 3211 can be provided in the water storage section 326.

[0378] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the structure of the drain bucket of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention.

[0379] The drain bucket 302 may have a box shape for storing water.

[0380] The drain bucket 302 may have a water supply hole on its back, and the supply hole may be arranged closer to the top than the bottom surface of the drain bucket 302.

[0381] The loading and unloading section 380 may include: a load-bearing support section 381 capable of supporting one or more of the drain tank 302, the water supply tank 301, and the iron module S; and a loading and unloading support section 382 arranged in front of the load-bearing support section 381 and available for the drain tank 302 and the water supply tank 301 to be placed.

[0382] The load-bearing support 381 may have a plate shape and be able to support the bottom of the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302. The loading and unloading support 382 may also have a plate shape and support the back of the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302.

[0383] The loading / unloading section 380 may include a loading / unloading separation section 383 protruding from the load-bearing support section 381 and disposed between the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302. The loading / unloading separation section 383 can separate the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302 by a constant interval. This prevents the other of the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302 from being arbitrarily pulled out when one of them is pulled out.

[0384] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may further include a drain section 330 for collecting condensed water in the circulation pipe 320 into a drain tank 302.

[0385] The drainage section 330 may include a drainage pump 331 that receives water from the guide pipe 3263 and a drainage hose 333 that receives water from the drainage pump 331 and guides it to the drainage bucket 301.

[0386] The drainage section 330 of the present invention may further include a discharge pipe 334 that connects the drainage hose 333 and the drainage bucket 301. The discharge pipe 334 may be configured to receive water from the drainage hose 333 and guide it into the drainage bucket 302.

[0387] On the other hand, the discharge pipe 334 can also be directly connected to the drain hose 333 or be integrally formed with the drain hose 333.

[0388] However, in the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, the discharge pipe 334 can be provided in the circulation pipe 320 so that water can be continuously received even when the water inside the drain tank 302 becomes full. The circulation pipe 320 can be configured to re-enclose water flowing back from the discharge pipe 334 or the drain tank 301.

[0389] Therefore, the circulation pipe 320 and the water storage section 326 temporarily function as a drain tank 302, thereby increasing the water storage capacity. As a result, water can be prevented from overflowing out of the drain tank 302.

[0390] For example, the loading and unloading part 380 may include a loading and unloading connecting part 384, which passes through the loading and unloading support part 382 to enable the drain hose 333 and the drain bucket 302 to connect.

[0391] The loading and unloading connection 384 may be formed in the area facing the supply hole provided in the drainage bucket when the drainage bucket 301 is placed on the load support 381.

[0392] The discharge pipe 334 can extend from the circulation pipe 320 or from the loading / unloading part 380. The discharge pipe 334 can be formed by injection molding. Thus, the discharge pipe 334 can stably fix the end of the drain hose 333 and prevent the drain hose 333 from bending sharply.

[0393] Furthermore, the discharge pipe 334 can be formed from a tubular injection-molded material fixed to the circulation pipe 320 or the support platform 380, thereby ensuring that its position remains constant. Consequently, the end of the discharge pipe 334 and the supply hole located in the drain tank 302 are always positioned accurately, allowing condensate supplied from the drain pump 331 to flow reliably into the drain tank 302.

[0394] The garment treatment device of the present invention may further include a backflow section 335, which allows water contained inside the drain tank 302 to flow back into the circulation pipe 320 or the residual water treatment section 330.

[0395] The counterflow section 335 can be located at the lower part of the discharge pipe 334, so that the circulation pipe 320 and the interior of the drain tank 302 are connected. The counterflow section 335 can be configured to receive water from the drain tank 302 and guide it into the circulation pipe 320.

[0396] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing in detail the structure of the counterflow section of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention.

[0397] The evaporator 341 and the condenser 343 may be arranged inside the circulation pipe 320. In this case, the evaporator 341 may be arranged in the circulation pipe 320 at a position further forward than the condenser 343.

[0398] The counterflow section 335 can be arranged on the front side of the circulation pipe 320. In this case, if water flowing into the circulation pipe 320 from the counterflow section 335 comes into contact with the evaporator 341, the evaporator 341 may be unnecessarily corroded or contaminated, and the efficiency of the evaporator 341 in cooling air may be reduced.

[0399] Therefore, the evaporator 341 can be arranged closer to the rear of the circulation pipe 320 than the counterflow section 335 to prevent water supplied from the counterflow section 335 from contacting the evaporator 341 along with air directed toward it.

[0400] The counterflow section 335 or the discharge pipe 334 can pass through the loading and unloading connecting section 384 and protrude towards the front of the circulation pipe 320. If the drain bucket 302 is placed on the loading and unloading support section 382, ​​the end of the counterflow section 335 or the discharge pipe 334 can be inserted into the drain bucket 302.

[0401] As a result, water discharged by the drain pump 331 to the outside of the circulation pipe 320 can be collected in the drain bucket 302 along the drain hose 333 and the discharge pipe 334.

[0402] If the water level in the drain tank 302 reaches the discharge pipe 334 or the counterflow section 335, the water overflowing from the counterflow section 335 will flow back into the circulation pipe 320 along the counterflow section 335, thereby preventing leakage to the outside of the machine room 300.

[0403] The guide flow path 338 can extend along the width direction of the front of the circulation pipe 320. One end of the guide flow path 338 can be arranged to communicate with the counterflow section 335, and the other end can be arranged on the upper part of the water storage tank 326.

[0404] In addition, the circulation pipe 320 may also include a blocking wall 337 that guides the water flowing in from the counterflow section 335 to the guiding flow path 338.

[0405] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing the lower part of the bottom surface of the inner shell.

[0406] The bottom surface 230 allows air from inside the inner casing 200 to flow into the circulation pipe 320 through the inlet hole 232, and receives air that has been dehumidified and heated as it passes through the circulation pipe 320 through the outlet hole 231. Furthermore, steam supplied from the heating unit 800 can be received through the steam hole 233.

[0407] However, in addition to the plurality of through holes, the bottom surface 230 can prevent air, moisture, and foreign matter inside the inner housing 200 from flowing out into the machine room 300.

[0408] A loading and unloading section 380 is provided in front of the machine room 300, which can also prevent external air, moisture, or foreign objects from flowing into the machine room 300.

[0409] In the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, the iron module S can be installed in the machine chamber 300. This prevents the iron module S from being exposed to air, moisture, and foreign matter inside the inner housing 200.

[0410] Furthermore, the overall structure of the machine room 300 can be arranged at a lower position than the bottom surface 230, thus allowing it to be arranged and installed independently of the inner shell 200. As a result, the machine room 300 can be manufactured as a module and installed within the housing 100.

[0411] The iron module S can be modularly installed in the machine room 300. Therefore, the iron module S can also be selectively installed in the machine room 300 without affecting the internal structure of the machine room 300 and the housing 100.

[0412] Therefore, in the garment processing apparatus of the present invention, even for products that do not have the iron module S installed, the iron module S can be subsequently installed in the machine room 300.

[0413] The iron module S can be arranged off-center on one side of the two sides of the machine room 300. The iron module S can minimize interference with existing structures such as the circulation pipe 320.

[0414] Furthermore, the iron module S can receive the required steam through the heating section 800 and water supply section 880 provided in the care module T, thus eliminating the need for a separate steam generation component.

[0415] For example, the iron module S can omit the additional water tank for storing water, the additional steam generator for heating water, and the additional drain section for discharging condensed water. Therefore, the iron module S can include only a delivery pipe 1400 connected to the heating unit 800 and capable of receiving steam or delivering condensed water, a steam iron 1300 connected to the delivery pipe 1400 and ejecting steam, a storage module 1200 capable of safely storing the steam iron 1300 in the machine room, and an independent control unit capable of controlling the steam iron 1300, etc., and other components can be omitted.

[0416] Therefore, the base structure for supporting the iron module S on one side of the circulation pipe 320 can be omitted from the machine room 300.

[0417] Furthermore, since the steam iron 1300 and the like are arranged in front of the machine room 300, a hollow space can be ensured behind the machine room 300 where the steam iron 1300 is arranged without setting up additional structures.

[0418] Therefore, the setup and maintenance of the iron module S can be made very easy.

[0419] Specifically, the iron module S may further include a storage section 1200, which is capable of storing one or more of the steam irons 1300 that supply heat and steam to the garments inside the machine room 300.

[0420] The storage section 1200 can be configured as a cover that provides space to accommodate the steam iron 1300.

[0421] The storage section 1200 may include a drawer 1230 having a drawer-type drawer extending forward from the machine room 300.

[0422] The drawer 1230 can be configured to move in the front-to-back direction from the loading and unloading section 380 and be pulled out from the loading and unloading section 380.

[0423] The loading and unloading part 380 may include support ribs on both sides of the drawer 1230 supported by the through hole, and the drawer 1230 may include guide rails on both sides for sliding the support ribs.

[0424] The drawer 1230 has an opening at the top, allowing the steam iron 1300 to be pulled out or inserted and stored. Thus, if the storage compartment 1200 is pulled out, the steam iron 1300 can be pulled out from the top of the drawer 1230 and moved to the surface of the clothing.

[0425] The machine room 300 may include a loading and unloading section 380, which covers the front of the machine room 300 and can support the water supply tank 301 and the drain tank 302.

[0426] The loading and unloading section 380 has an area corresponding to the front area of ​​the machine room 300. If combined with a frame arranged between the housing 100 and the inner shell 200, it can prevent the interior of the machine room 300 from being exposed from the front.

[0427] The loading / unloading section 380 may include a through hole that penetrates the loading / unloading support section 382, ​​allowing the drawer 1230 or the steam iron 1300 and the delivery pipe 1400 to be led out or inserted. The through hole may be located on one side of the area where the water tank 301 is located.

[0428] Through the through hole, the drawer 1230 can be inserted or its periphery can be supported, thereby allowing the drawer 1230 to be fixed to the machine room 300.

[0429] Therefore, for the iron module S, after the loading and unloading part 380 is separated from the machine room 300, the drawer 1230 containing the steam iron 1300 and the delivery pipe 1400 can be installed from the front of the machine room into the machine room.

[0430] Then, the delivery pipe 1400 can be connected to the heating unit 800 at the rear of the machine room 300 and connected to the main control unit 700 to complete the setup.

[0431] Alternatively, the loading / unloading section 380 can be repositioned to the front of the machine room 300, allowing the storage section 1200 to be inserted into or pass through the through hole.

[0432] As a result, the space on one side of the circulation pipe 320 is ensured to be completely empty from the front to the rear of the machine room, thus simplifying the setup, maintenance, and repair of the iron module S.

[0433] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the structure in which the water supply structure and the water supply unit are connected.

[0434] The ironing module S can be set independently and separately from the care module T, but it can be connected to the heating unit 800 located in the machine chamber 300. As a result, the ironing module S can receive steam generated by water stored in the water supply tank 301.

[0435] Therefore, the iron module S can be omitted from the list of components that can be connected to an additional water source or have an additional water tank installed.

[0436] In addition, the garment processing device of the present invention can supply steam to the interior of the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 through a water supply tank 301.

[0437] When the water supply tank 301 is driven by the water supply pump 881, the water stored in the water supply tank 301 can be supplied to the heating unit 800 through the supply pipe 882 via the water supply pump 881 and then through the connecting pipe 883.

[0438] If the connecting pipe 883 is connected to the steam nozzle 900, water can be supplied to the heating unit 800 through the steam nozzle 900.

[0439] If the water supplied to the heating unit 800 is heated, steam can be generated, and the steam can be discharged through the outlet 823.

[0440] The valve 890 can selectively open the outlet 823, or selectively open the branch pipe 885, or selectively open the guide pipe 1500 and the delivery pipe 1400, thereby selectively moving the steam from the heating unit 800 to the outside.

[0441] If the valve 890 opens the guide pipe 1500, the steam passing through the guide pipe 1500 can be discharged to the steam hole of the inner housing 200, or discharged to the steam hole through the steam nozzle 900 if the steam nozzle 900 is present.

[0442] If the valve 890 opens the delivery pipe 1400, the steam passing through the delivery pipe 1400 can move toward the steam iron 1300 and be discharged.

[0443] On the other hand, the garment handling device of the present invention can be controlled to operate only one of the care module T and the ironing module S. This is to prevent not only the ironing module S from operating when the door is closed, but also to prevent excessive power consumption.

[0444] If one or more of the door closing and the nursing module T actuation occur, the second valve 892 can be controlled to close the delivery pipe 1400 to prevent steam from being supplied to the delivery pipe 1400.

[0445] If one or more of the following occurs: the door opens and the nursing module T stops operating, the first valve 891 can be controlled to close the delivery pipe 1300 to prevent steam from being supplied to the guide pipe 1300.

[0446] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the premise structure in which the drainage structure and the drainage section can be connected.

[0447] The circulation pipe 320 may also include an inflow pipe 3264 that guides water discharged from the drainage structure 2600 to the water storage tank 260.

[0448] The direction in which the inflow pipe 3264 is set and the direction in which the guide pipe 3263 is set can be different from each other.

[0449] For example, the guide pipe 3263 may be formed on the front side of the circulation pipe 320, and the inflow pipe 3264 may be formed on the left or right side of the circulation pipe 320.

[0450] The inflow pipe 3264 can be located in the area on the side of the circulation pipe 320 corresponding to the side of the water storage tank 326.

[0451] The inflow pipe 3264 can be configured to connect the inside of the water storage tank 326 with the outside of the circulation pipe 320, and protrude outward from the side of the circulation pipe 320.

[0452] The inflow pipe 3264 can be positioned at a higher level than the bottom of the water storage tank 326 or the guide pipe 3263.

[0453] If the drainage structure 2600 discharges water into the inflow pipe 3264, the water can be collected in the water storage tank 326, discharged into the guide pipe 3263 and connected to the drainage section 330.

[0454] Therefore, the additional drain bucket for the iron module S can be omitted.

[0455] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing the structure in which the drainage structure and the drainage section are connected.

[0456] The iron module S can be arranged independently and separately from the structure of the machine room 300, but it can be connected to the drainage section 330 of the nursing module T through the heating section 800 and the circulation pipe 320.

[0457] As a result, the iron module S can be configured to drain residual water into the drain tank 302. Therefore, the additional drain tank 302 or the structure connecting the iron module S to an additional sewer can be omitted.

[0458] In the garment processing device of the present invention, steam that is not discharged from the iron module S and is condensed or water that is retained in the guide pipe 1300 can be recovered to the heating unit 800 through the conveying pipe 1400.

[0459] Water recovered to the heating unit 800 can move into the circulation pipe 320 through the drain pipe. As a result, the water recovered to the heating unit 800 and the residual water collected in the circulation pipe 320 can be collected in the drain bucket 302 through the drain section.

[0460] Figure 21 This is a diagram showing the structure and layout of the iron module and control unit.

[0461] The main control unit 700 can be configured to connect to an external power source and receive power.

[0462] The main control unit 700 can be configured to supply power not only to the care modules T such as the heat supply unit 340, the heating unit 800, the water supply unit 880, the drainage unit 330, and the air supply unit 350, but also to all electrical components of the garment handling device 1.

[0463] On the other hand, the iron module S also needs to supply power to the steam iron 1300.

[0464] Therefore, the main control unit 700 can also supply power to the iron module S.

[0465] In addition, the steam iron 1300 requires the user to adjust the amount of steam sprayed, the steam pressure, and the steam temperature.

[0466] In this case, if power is supplied to the ironing module S from the main control unit 700 or the ironing module S is controlled, there is a risk that the size of the main control unit 700 is larger than the area of ​​the circulation pipe 320, and there is also a risk that the main control unit 700 is not compatible with clothing handling devices that do not have an ironing module S.

[0467] Therefore, the iron module S may also include an independent control unit 4000 that supplies power to the steam iron 1300 or is capable of controlling the steam iron 1300.

[0468] On the other hand, the steam iron 1300 can be formed by a configuration separate from the independent control unit 4000.

[0469] This is because if the independent control unit 4000 is arranged inside the steam iron 1300, the steam iron 1300 becomes larger and may be difficult for the user to hold, and the weight of the steam iron 1300 also makes it difficult for the user to hold.

[0470] Therefore, the iron module S of the present invention can fix the independent control unit 4000 to the storage unit 1200, instead of setting the independent control unit 4000 to the steam iron 1300.

[0471] As a result, the steam iron 1300 can be formed with a simple configuration having only an ON / OFF switch or a steam jet switch, etc.

[0472] The independent control unit 4000 can be configured not to be directly connected to an external power source, but instead connected to the main control unit 700 via a wire to receive the required power from the main control unit 700. In this case, the main control unit 700 can function as the external power source for the iron module S.

[0473] Therefore, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a control line L1 that electrically connects the independent control unit 4000 and the main control unit 700.

[0474] The independent control unit 4000 can be configured to receive power via the control line L1.

[0475] In addition, the independent control unit 4000 can be connected to the main control unit 700 via a communication line, thereby receiving various information from the main control unit 700.

[0476] The communication line can be arranged separately from the control line L1 and can extend together with the control line L1. For example, the communication line and the control line L2 can be set up independently, but can be built into a connecting line L2, such as a rubber hose, and guided to the independent control unit 4000.

[0477] Therefore, the possibility of complex arrangement or tangling of multiple wirings connecting the independent control unit 4000 and the main control unit 700 inside the machine room 300 is eliminated, thus making assembly / maintenance easy.

[0478] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a base module 3000 that houses the independent control unit 4000 and the storage box 1200 within the machine compartment. In this case, the independent control unit 4000 can be arranged separately from the storage box 1200, thereby maximally preventing heat generated in the independent control unit 4000 from being transferred to the steam iron 1300, or heat generated in the steam iron 1300 or the delivery pipe 1400 from being transferred to the independent control unit 4000.

[0479] The independent control unit 4000 can receive information via the control line L2 regarding whether the door 120 is closed and the opening 220, which can be identified by the main control unit 700, and whether the nursing module T is in operation, and control the iron module S.

[0480] Because of the independent control unit 4000, the ironing module S can operate independently of the control state of the care module T. However, the ironing module S only operates when the door 120 is open, requiring the heat supply unit 340 and the heating unit 800 to be controlled only if the door 120 is closed. Therefore, the independent control unit 4000 receives power from the main control unit 700 via the control line L2 and communicates with the main control unit 700, thereby controlling the ironing module S by recognizing the open state of the door 120 and the operating states of the heat supply unit 340 and the heating unit 800.

[0481] On the other hand, the steam iron 1300 may also include a control line L1 built into the delivery pipe 1400 and connected to the independent control unit 4000 or the main control unit 700. The steam iron 1300 can receive power via the control line L1 through the independent control unit 4000, and can also be controlled by the independent control unit 4000.

[0482] The steam iron 1300 may also have a separate heater inside the head (end) for further heating and steam injection. The heater is separate from the independent control unit 4000, so the capacity can be reduced and the steam iron 1300 can remain compact.

[0483] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating an additional embodiment of the power cord and steam supplying the steam iron.

[0484] The independent control unit 4000 can be attached to and fixed to the cover 1200. For example, it can also be attached to and disposed on the back of the independent control unit 4000.

[0485] Alternatively, the independent control unit 400 may be integrally provided with and built into the cover 1200.

[0486] In this case, the iron module S can omit the need to add an additional base module.

[0487] The independent control unit 4000 can receive power or control signals from the main control unit 700 via wire L2.

[0488] The independent control unit 4000 can transmit one or more of the power and control signals transmitted from the main control unit 700 via the control line L3 to the steam iron 1300.

[0489] The steam iron 1300 can receive water from the heating unit 2100 through the delivery pipe 1400. At this time, the steam iron 1300 can be provided with an additional delivery pipe 1410, and connected to the delivery pipe 1400 supplied from the heating unit 2100 and the control line L3.

[0490] For example, the additional delivery pipe 1410 may also be an additional delivery pipe that accommodates the delivery pipe 1400 and the control line L3.

[0491] Therefore, the cover 1200 may also include a connector 1230 on the back side for connecting and merging the delivery pipe 1400 and the control line L3.

[0492] Thus, the delivery pipe 1400 can extend from the heating unit 2100 to the connector 1230, and the control line L3 can extend from the independent control unit 4000 to the connector 1230.

[0493] The additional delivery pipe 1410, described later, can be connected to the connector 1230 at one end and to the steam iron 1300 at the other end on the inner surface of the cover 1200, thereby allowing the delivery pipe 1400 and the control line L3 to be connected to the steam iron 1300.

[0494] The additional delivery pipe 1410 may be formed from a configuration separate from the delivery pipe 1400 and the control line L3. In this case, the additional delivery pipe 1410 may also internally include a delivery pipe connected to the delivery pipe 1400 and an additional line connected to the control line L3.

[0495] Therefore, the delivery pipe 1400 and the control line L3 can be detachably connected to the back of the storage box 1200, and the additional delivery pipe 1410 can be detachably connected to the front interior of the storage box 1200. This makes it easy to install the iron module S in the machine room 300, and also makes it easy to connect the steam iron 1300 to the independent control unit 4000 and the heating unit 2100.

[0496] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating an additional embodiment of the storage module.

[0497] The storage section 1200 of the present invention may include a storage body 1210 for storing the steam iron 1300 inside the machine room, and a cover 1130 rotatably disposed in front of the storage body 1210 or the loading and unloading section 380 and covering the interior of the storage body 1210.

[0498] The storage section 1200 may include an open surface 1220 located in front of the storage body 1210 and through which the steam iron 1300 can be extended.

[0499] The cover 1130 can be easily rotated to expose the steam iron 1300 housed in the storage body 1210. As a result, drawers or other components that allow the steam iron 1300 to be extended forward from the storage section 1200 can be omitted.

[0500] The cover 1130 may have an area capable of concealing the open surface 1220 or the through hole of the loading / unloading part 380. The cover 1130 may be arranged side by side with the water supply tank 301 when concealing the open surface 1220 or the through hole.

[0501] The lower end of the cover 1130 can be rotatably disposed on the loading and unloading part 380, and the upper end can be away from the cover 1200.

[0502] Therefore, if the door 120 is closed, the cover door 1130 can automatically close the open surface 1220 of the cover.

[0503] The storage section 1200 may further include an iron mounting section 1190 that supports the steam iron 1300 at the lower part of the cover 1200. The iron mounting section 1190 may be configured to allow the head portion of the steam iron 1300 to be attached and detached.

[0504] The iron mounting part 1190 may include a mounting body 1191 installed on the storage body 1210 and a mounting groove 1192 recessed on the upper surface of the mounting body 1191 for mounting the head of the steam iron 1300.

[0505] The iron mounting section 1190 can be accommodated in the storage body 1210 without extending to the open surface 1220.

[0506] Figure 24 This is a diagram showing a steam iron housed within the main body of the cover.

[0507] The storage body 1210 may include a first body 1211 installed on the support panel 3200 and a second body 1222 attached to the upper part of the first body 1211 and providing space inside for storing the steam iron 1300.

[0508] The lower part of the open surface 1220 can be formed in front of the first main body 1211, and the upper part of the open surface 1220 can be formed in front of the second main body 1212.

[0509] The iron mounting part 1190 that supports the steam iron 1300 may be provided inside the storage body 1210.

[0510] The support panel 3200 may also include a hinge portion 3400 at the front, which is rotatably connected to the cover 1130.

[0511] The hinge portion 3400 can be arranged in front of the iron mounting portion 1190 and the open surface 1220.

[0512] The hinge portion 3400 can rise to a height where the lower end of the cover 1130 can be positioned below the through hole 385. Thus, the cover 1130 can selectively conceal or open the through hole 385.

[0513] The cover 1130 can open the through hole 385, thereby exposing the open surface 1220 and the steam iron 1300.

[0514] The cover 1130 closes the through hole 385, thereby preventing the open surface 1220 and the steam iron 1300 from being exposed to the outside.

[0515] Figure 25 This is a diagram showing how a steam iron is introduced.

[0516] Reference Figure 25 (a) The cover 1130 can be rotated forward to open the through hole 385. Therefore, the steam iron 1300 can be extended forward from the cover 1200 through the open surface 1220 and the through hole 385.

[0517] In addition, the steam iron 1300 can be reinserted into the through hole 385 and placed into the open surface 1220 after steam is drawn out and sprayed onto the surface of the clothing, and can be installed into the iron mounting part 1190 starting from the head 1310.

[0518] One end of the delivery pipe 1400 can be connected to the heating part 2100, and the other end can be connected to the connector 1230, so that steam can move.

[0519] On the other hand, the control line L3 can be connected from the independent control unit 4000 to the connector 1230, thereby transmitting one or more of the power and control signals transmitted from the independent control unit 4000 or the main control unit 700 to the inside of the storage box 1200.

[0520] The additional delivery pipe 1410 can be configured to allow the steam, electricity, and control signals supplied from the delivery pipe 1400 and the control line L3 to move, with one end connected to the connector 1230 and the other end connected to the steam iron 1300.

[0521] The additional delivery pipe 1410 can be detachably disposed on the connector 1230.

[0522] Reference Figure 25 (b) The user can wind the delivery tube 1400 and insert it into the through hole 385. At this time, a portion of the delivery tube 1400 can be inserted into the storage body 1210, but the remaining portion can be arranged between the open surface 1220 and the through hole 385.

[0523] Reference Figure 25 (c) The cover 1130 can close the through hole 385. In the steam iron 1300, the iron cover 1350 can be placed on the iron mounting part 1190, and the handle part 1311 can be supported on the back of the cover 1310.

[0524] Additionally, at least a portion of the delivery pipe 1400 may also be supported on the back of the cover 1310.

[0525] Therefore, the user can easily insert the steam iron 1300 and the delivery tube 1400 into the through hole 385. If the storage body 1210 only accommodates the iron cover 1350, then providing space to accommodate only a portion of the steam iron 1300 and a portion of the delivery tube 1400 is sufficient.

[0526] In other words, the space between the open surface 1220 and the through hole 385 can be used as a space to accommodate the steam iron 1300 and the delivery pipe 1400.

[0527] Therefore, the overall length and volume of the iron module S can be reduced.

[0528] Figure 26 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a control method for supplying steam to a steam iron and its inner casing via a heating element.

[0529] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention can supply steam to both the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 by heating one of the heating units 800.

[0530] Alternatively, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention may also be configured such that, even when steam is generated in the heating section 800, the valve section 890 determines whether to supply steam to the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300.

[0531] Therefore, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can perform a mode check step A1 to check whether an instruction to activate the iron module S has been input or whether the iron module S has been activated, and whether an instruction to activate the care module T has been input or whether the care module T has been activated.

[0532] The pattern checking step A1 can correspond to sensing via action commands input to the main control unit 700 or the independent control unit 4000.

[0533] Alternatively, the mode check step A1 can also be determined by whether the door 120 is open or closed. That is, this is because when the door 120 is open, only the iron module S can be activated, and when the door 120 is closed, the iron module S cannot be activated.

[0534] If the mode check step A1 determines that the nursing module T is activated, then the first opening step A2-1 of opening the first valve 891 can be executed.

[0535] In this case, the second valve 892 can be closed, thereby preventing the steam from moving arbitrarily toward the steam iron 1300.

[0536] If the heating unit 800 generates steam in the first opening step A2-1, it is directly supplied to the inner shell 200. If only steam equivalent to atmospheric pressure is supplied to the inner shell 200, the first valve 891 can remain open from the beginning. Therefore, the first valve 891 can correspond to the open state.

[0537] In the first opening step A2-1, the heating unit 800 may include a simple drive A3-1 that simply drives the water until it is converted into steam. That is, the heating unit 800 can simply heat the water until it generates steam.

[0538] If the heating unit 800 generates steam, steam injection step A6 can be performed, in which the steam is naturally injected into the inner housing 200 through the first valve 891 along the guide pipe 1500.

[0539] If the mode check step A1 determines that the iron module S is activated, then the first closing step A2-2, which closes the second valve 892, can be executed. In this case, the first valve 891 is also closed, thereby preventing the steam from moving arbitrarily into the inner housing 200.

[0540] The heating unit 800 can perform a high-pressure drive step A3-2 to heat the steam until it reaches a pressure above atmospheric pressure. The pressure sensor 893 can perform a pressure sensing step A4 to sense the pressure inside the heating unit 800, which is equivalent to a set value. The heating unit 800 can maintain the high-pressure drive step A3-3 until the pressure is equivalent to the set value.

[0541] If the pressure inside the heating unit 800 reaches a set value in the pressure sensing step A4, the second opening step A5, which opens the second valve unit 892, can be executed.

[0542] In the second opening step A5, the first valve 891 can remain closed. This allows the steam injection step A6, in which the steam generated in the heating unit 800 is injected only into the steam iron 1300, to be performed.

[0543] Figure 27 This diagram illustrates an additional control method for supplying steam to the steam iron and its inner casing via a heating element.

[0544] In the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, there may be a plurality of valve sections 890, which is independent of the case where the outlet 823 of the heating section 800 has one branch pipe 825 to the steam iron 1300 and the inner shell 200, or the case where there are a plurality of outlets 823 and the steam iron 1300 and the inner shell 200 are respectively connected to the heating section 800.

[0545] The first valve 891 may be configured to open and close the guide pipe 1500 that supplies steam from the heating unit 800 to the inner housing 200, and the second valve 892 may be configured to open and close the delivery pipe 1400 that supplies steam from the heating unit 800 to the steam iron 1300.

[0546] On the other hand, the inner housing 200 and the steam iron 1300 can physically receive steam simultaneously.

[0547] However, since the nursing procedures are performed with the door 120 sealing the receiving space 220 of the inner housing, it is preferable to supply steam to the inner housing 200 only when the door 120 closes the housing 100.

[0548] Furthermore, the steam iron 1300 is designed to be drawn from the machine room 300, so it is preferable to supply steam only when the door 120 is open and the housing 100 is open.

[0549] Therefore, in the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, the valve 890 can be controlled to open only one of the guide tube 1500 and the delivery tube 1400.

[0550] Furthermore, since the steam iron 1300 sprays steam and heat directly onto the surface of the garment in an open space to remove wrinkles, and the inner shell 200 steams the garment in a closed space, the pressure of the steam supplied to the steam iron 1300 is preferably set to be greater than the pressure of the steam supplied to the interior of the inner shell 200, and possibly even more forcefully, the pressure of the steam supplied to the interior of the inner shell 200 is also greater than atmospheric pressure.

[0551] As a result, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can set the control of the first valve section 891 and the second valve section 892 differently depending on whether the steam iron 1300 and the heat supply section 340 are in operation, whether the door is open or not, and the pressure state of the steam generated in the heating section 800.

[0552] As an example, the garment handling device of the present invention can perform the shut-off step S1, which controls the valve section 890 to close all steam-related flow paths, before power is supplied to the garment handling device of the present invention, or even if power is supplied but before the care operation or steam ironing begins.

[0553] In the closing step S1, the first valve 891 can be controlled to close the guide pipe 1500, and the second valve 892 can be controlled to close the delivery pipe 1400.

[0554] The garment handling device of the present invention can perform a heating step S2, which generates steam by driving the heating unit 800 to heat water, when the garment handling operation begins or when a command to operate a steam iron is received.

[0555] The heating step S2 can be performed during the shutdown step S1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent water that is not steam from being supplied to the guide pipe 1500 and the delivery pipe 1400 in the heating step S2, and even if steam is generated in the heating step S2, it is possible to prevent arbitrary supply to the guide pipe 1500 and the delivery pipe 1400.

[0556] The heating step S2 can be continuously driven until steam is generated in the heating unit 800. In the garment processing apparatus of the present invention, a sensing step S3 can be performed to sense whether steam is generated in the heating unit 800. The sensing step S3 can determine whether steam is generated by using a temperature sensor or a pressure sensor 2300 integrated with the heating unit 800.

[0557] If steam is sensed in the heating unit 800, the clothing handling device of the present invention can first determine whether the door 120 is open or not and whether the generated steam reaches more than one of the target values.

[0558] For example, in the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, if the door is in a closed state, the second valve 892 can remain closed, and if the door is in an open state, the first valve 891 can remain closed.

[0559] Furthermore, even if the door is closed, the first valve 891 can remain closed if the steam pressure does not reach the reference value, and even if the steam pressure reaches the reference value, the first valve 891 can only be opened during the steam injection step in the nursing operation.

[0560] Furthermore, even if the door is open, the second valve 892 can remain closed if the steam pressure does not reach a set value higher than the reference value. Even if the steam pressure reaches the set value, the second valve 892 can only be opened when the spray button or the like is pressed in the steam iron 1300.

[0561] As an example, the clothing handling device of the present invention can execute the sensing step S3 or the determination step S4 in the driving step S2 to determine whether the door is open.

[0562] If the door is sensed to be open in the judgment step S4, the clothing handling device of the present invention can perform the high pressure judgment step S5-1, in which the first valve 891 remains closed under any circumstances and the pressure of the heating unit 800 is determined to be at a set value (or maximum value).

[0563] In this case, the driving step S2 can continue until the pressure of the steam in the heating unit 800 reaches the set value.

[0564] If the steam pressure reaches the set value in the high-pressure judgment step S5-1, the garment processing device of the present invention can execute the spraying step S6-1 of opening the second valve 892. In the spraying step S6-1, steam can be sprayed into the steam iron 1300 at high pressure, and the first valve 891 can remain closed.

[0565] If the door is sensed to be closed in the judgment step S4, the clothing handling device of the present invention can perform the target judgment step S5-2, which determines whether the pressure of the heating unit 800 has reached the reference value (target value) and that the second valve 892 remains closed under any circumstances.

[0566] In this case, the driving step S2 can continue until the pressure of the steam in the heating unit 800 reaches the reference value.

[0567] If the steam pressure reaches a reference value in the target determination step S5-2, the garment processing device of the present invention can execute the supply step S6-2 of opening the first valve 891. In the supply step S6-1, steam can be injected into the inner housing 200, and the second valve 892 can remain closed.

[0568] The reference value can be set to be greater than atmospheric pressure, or it can be set to be greater than 1 standard atmosphere and less than 2 standard atmospheres.

[0569] As mentioned above, the set value can be set to be above 2 standard atmospheres and less than 4 standard atmospheres.

[0570] In addition, whether the door is closed or not can be determined by reed switches and magnets installed on the door 120 and the housing 100.

[0571] This invention can be implemented in various modified ways, and its scope of claim is not limited to the above embodiments. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes elements within the scope of the claims of this invention, it should be considered to fall within the scope of the claims of this invention.

Claims

1. A garment processing device, characterized in that, include: Box; The inner shell provides storage space for clothing; Door, to open and close the aforementioned containing space; A circulation pipe forms a flow path for the air to circulate inside the inner shell; The heat supply unit heats the air and supplies it to the interior of the inner casing; A steam iron, arranged inside the housing, extendable towards the inner shell or the door; and The steam supply unit selectively supplies steam to the interior of the inner housing and the steam iron; The steam supply unit is configured such that the pressure of the steam supplied to the steam iron is higher than the pressure of the steam supplied to the interior of the inner casing.

2. The garment processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam supply unit includes: The heating element, connected to both the inner casing and the steam iron, heats the water; and The valve section allows the heating element to be selectively connected to one of the inner housing and the steam iron.

3. The garment processing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heating element includes: The guide pipe delivers steam into the inner shell; and The delivery pipe supplies steam to the steam iron; The valve is configured to selectively open and close the guide pipe and the delivery pipe.

4. The garment processing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve is configured to open the guide tube at a first temperature or a first pressure and to open the delivery tube at a second temperature or a second pressure. The second temperature is set higher than the first temperature, and the second pressure is set higher than the first pressure.

5. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve is controlled to be such that... The steam generated in the heating section is directly discharged through the guide pipe; If the steam generated in the heating section is further pressurized or further heated, it is discharged through the conveying pipe.

6. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The heating element further includes: It contains a main body, holds water, and is connected to the guide pipe and the delivery pipe; A heater, incorporated into the containment body, heats the water; and Pressure sensor, senses the pressure inside the housing; The valve is controlled to open and close the guide tube and the delivery tube according to the pressure inside the receiving body.

7. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The heating element further includes: It contains a main body, holds water, and is connected to the guide pipe and the delivery pipe; A heater, incorporated into the containment body, heats the water; and Temperature sensor, senses the temperature inside the housing; The valve is controlled to open and close the guide tube and the delivery tube according to the temperature inside the receiving body.

8. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve section includes: The first valve section opens and closes the guide tube; and The second valve section opens and closes the delivery pipe; The second valve is controlled to open at a second temperature or a second pressure; The first valve is controlled to open at a first temperature or a first pressure; The second temperature is set higher than the first temperature, and the second pressure is set higher than the first pressure.

9. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a branch pipe, which is connected to the heating unit, and the guide pipe and the delivery pipe are connected to the branch pipe; The valve is located on the branch pipe and opens and closes the guide pipe and the delivery pipe.

10. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve is controlled to be such that... If the door is opened, then the guide tube is closed; If the door is closed, the delivery pipe is shut off.

11. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The heating element is driven independently of the opening and closing of the door.

12. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a water supply tank located in front of the circulation pipe; The steam generating unit is configured to receive water from the water supply tank and generate steam to supply the inner housing and the steam iron.

13. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, It also includes a water supply pump that supplies water stored in the water supply tank to the heating unit; The water pump is configured to supply water at a higher pressure when supplying steam to the steam iron, compared to when supplying steam to the inner housing.

14. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam supply unit supplies steam at atmospheric pressure to the interior of the inner casing, while supplying steam at pressure higher than atmospheric pressure to the steam iron.

15. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that, The steam iron supplies steam at a pressure 2 to 3 times higher than atmospheric pressure.

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