Laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

A laundry treating apparatus includes: a cabinet; a processing chamber positioned inside the cabinet and configured to accommodate laundry; a door configured to open and close the processing chamber; a machine compartment disposed inside the cabinet and positioned at a lower portion of the processing chamber; a base module positioned within the machine compartment and configured for heat exchange with air of the processing chamber; a control board positioned in a control board mounting portion provided in the bottom of the machine compartment and configured to control a configuration of the laundry treating apparatus; and a fan disposed at a vertically overlapping position with respect to the control plate and configured to discharge the sucked air in a direction away from the control plate.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0115530, filed on August 31, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference into this application as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a laundry treatment apparatus, and more particularly, to a laundry treatment apparatus for deodorizing, drying, and removing wrinkles from laundry. Background Art

[0004] Generally speaking, clothes processing equipment includes washing machines and dryers. Washing machines soak clothes in water and then remove foreign matter from the wet clothes through the chemical action of detergents and physical actions such as drum rotation, while dryers use hot air and steam to dry the wet clothes.

[0005] In recent years, clothing treatment appliances have emerged for clothing care, including deodorizing dry clothes without soaking them in water, removing moisture from clothes, or removing wrinkles. These clothing treatment appliances perform a refreshing process by supplying moisture, steam, or hot air while the clothes are hung to deodorize, dry, or sterilize the clothes.

[0006] Laundry treatment appliances can use either heaters or heat pumps to dry clothes. Heat pumps utilize an evaporator and condenser to dehumidify moist air, reheat the air, and then supply the dry, hot air to the clothes. Compared to heaters, heat pumps can generate higher heat with less energy, resulting in superior energy efficiency.

[0007] Heat pumps can dehumidify or heat moist air through the refrigerant cycle. Refrigerants can be categorized as natural refrigerants, first-generation chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), second-generation hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), third-generation hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and fourth-generation hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs). CFC- and HCFC-based refrigerants, classified as Freon gases, are known to be major ozone-depleting substances, and their use is regulated by the Montreal Protocol.

[0008] HFC-based refrigerants do not have adverse effects such as ozone depletion, but they can contribute to global warming. A representative example is R-134a. HFC-based refrigerants are defined as global warming substances under the Montreal Protocol, and their use has been gradually phased out. Consequently, HFO-based refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP) are becoming the next generation of refrigerants.

[0009] GWP refers to the global warming impact of other greenhouse gases compared to the global warming impact of carbon dioxide. In other words, GWP is the amount of solar energy absorbed by 1 kilogram of a greenhouse gas divided by the amount of solar energy absorbed by 1 kilogram of carbon dioxide. GWP is an index of warming effect per unit mass. For example, while carbon dioxide has a GWP of 1, methane has a GWP of 21, nitrous oxide has a GWP of 310, hydrogen fluoride has a GWP of 1300, and sulfur hexafluoride has a GWP of 23900.

[0010] To prevent accelerated global warming, the use of high-GWP materials is being restricted worldwide. Consequently, heat pumps and laundry treatment equipment using R-290 (a refrigerant with a low GWP) have been developed. However, R-290 is a high-purity propane gas that is flammable and combustible. In particular, if the concentration of R-290 in the air exceeds 1.8% due to a leak during use, combustion or explosion may occur.

[0011] Therefore, there is a need for a device or control method that can detect refrigerant leakage during operation and prevent it from burning. Prior art documents related to preventing refrigerant combustion include Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0001769 (Prior Art Document 1). Prior Art Document 1 discloses a clothing treatment device including a heat pump using a flammable refrigerant. A control method for the clothing treatment device is disclosed, which operates a fan according to a preset time regardless of whether the refrigerant leaks to prevent the refrigerant from burning.

[0012] Prior Art Document 1 proposes a method for using such a blower to prevent an increase in the concentration of flammable refrigerant due to refrigerant leakage when the flammable refrigerant is concentrated in one place. The blower is operated to form an internal airflow to prevent the concentration of the flammable refrigerant from increasing. This reduces the possibility of combustion. Prior Art Document 1 discloses using a blower configured to blow air toward the compressor or to draw air around the compressor and then blow it to reduce the temperature of the compressor. It also discloses using a blower to dilute the flammable refrigerant in the event of a flammable refrigerant (such as R-290) leak.

[0013] However, flammable refrigerants (such as R-290) are characterized by their high density. This means that leaked flammable refrigerants, due to their inherent density, will diffuse toward the bottom plate. However, because the fan in Prior Art Document 1 is positioned along the height of the compressor, the further the fan is positioned relative to its rotational axis, the less airflow it generates. Naturally, the generated airflow is likely insufficient to dilute the refrigerant below the fan.

[0014] In order to more effectively disperse high-density flammable refrigerants (such as R-290), it is desirable to form an airflow concentrated in the lower part of the space. In other words, if the fan is arranged in the manner disclosed in Prior Art Document 1, it will be fundamentally limited in dispersing the refrigerant concentrated in the lower part of the space.

[0015] The main function of the fan disclosed in Prior Art Document 1 is to cool the compressor. Prior Art Document 1 discloses a method of additionally using the fan by generating an airflow to disperse the refrigerant. In other words, forming an airflow that can reach the entire compressor would be considered a normal use environment for the fan. Forming an airflow in a manner that concentrates the airflow at the lower part of the compressor may not be considered a typical use environment for the fan as intended by Prior Art Document 1. Therefore, in the clothes processing device known from Prior Art Document 1, it is difficult to change the position of the fan so that it focuses on dispersing the refrigerant distributed at the lower part of the compressor rather than cooling the compressor.

[0016] According to the disclosure of prior art document 1, there is a motivation to reduce the refrigerant density by generating airflow in the clothes treating apparatus, but the clothes treating apparatus has not reached the level of dispersing or diluting the refrigerant dispersed in the lower part of the space by concentrating the airflow in the lower part of the space. Utility Model Content

[0017] Accordingly, the present disclosure is directed to a clothes treating apparatus that substantially obviates one or more problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.

[0018] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a structure for preventing explosion due to leakage of flammable refrigerant in a clothes treating apparatus equipped with a heat pump using the flammable refrigerant.

[0019] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a structure that can effectively ventilate high-density flammable refrigerant when the refrigerant is deposited on a lower portion of an internal space of a device, such as a floor within a casing or a floor of a machine compartment.

[0020] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an arrangement that can effectively utilize the limited space of an apparatus to ventilate a flammable refrigerant.

[0021] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a structure for centrally ventilating an area where flammable refrigerants may explode due to spark generation.

[0022] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a low-cost, high-efficiency structure for reducing the risk of explosion due to leakage of flammable refrigerant.

[0023] The present disclosure aims to provide a laundry treatment device having an intelligent power module (IPM) cooling structure to solve the problem of compressor stopping due to an increase in IPM temperature caused by increased compressor power consumption when R-290 is used.

[0024] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a structure for solving the problem of additional heating of the IPM due to the added control configuration when a fan for cooling the IPM is added.

[0025] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a structure for providing a fan for cooling an IPM without increasing the temperature of the IPM and providing a fan for dispersing refrigerant or discharging the refrigerant to the outside of the device.

[0026] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a structure for effectively utilizing a limited space of a machine compartment while providing a blower for discharging leaked refrigerant.

[0027] The present disclosure aims to provide a structure for reducing the size of a heat sink provided on a control board. If the size of the heat sink is reduced, space efficiency can be improved.

[0028] The purpose of the present disclosure is to prevent the possibility of a refrigerant explosion by operating the ventilator before operating other electrical equipment.

[0029] An object of the present disclosure is to effectively ventilate leaked refrigerant by performing a safety procedure in which a ventilator is first operated before performing a main procedure.

[0030] The objectives to be achieved by the present disclosure are not limited to the contents specifically described above, and those skilled in the art can more clearly understand other objectives not described herein from the following detailed description.

[0031] To achieve these objects and other advantages, and in accordance with the purposes of the present disclosure, as embodied and broadly described herein, a clothing treatment apparatus includes: a housing; a treatment chamber positioned within the housing and configured to accommodate clothing; a door configured to open and close the treatment chamber; a heat exchanger positioned within the housing, disposed in a lower portion of the treatment chamber, and configured to exchange heat with air in the treatment chamber using a flammable refrigerant; a control board positioned within the housing, disposed in a lower portion of the treatment chamber, and configured to control the heat exchanger; and a fan configured to cool the control board, disposed near a bottom plate within the housing, and configured to disperse airflow toward the bottom plate within the housing.

[0032] In one embodiment, the exhaust port of the fan may be in communication with the outside of the casing to discharge the sucked air to the outside of the casing.

[0033] In one embodiment, the control panel may have a mounting surface for mounting components thereon, the mounting surface facing downward, and the fan may be disposed below the control panel.

[0034] In one embodiment, the clothes processing apparatus may further include a circulation duct positioned within the housing, disposed at a lower portion of the processing chamber, and configured to form a circulation flow path to discharge air introduced from the processing chamber back into the processing chamber, and the control panel may be disposed below the circulation duct.

[0035] In one embodiment, an exhaust port of the fan may be in communication with the circulation duct, and air discharged from the fan may be guided to the circulation duct.

[0036] In one embodiment, a heat sink configured to cool an intelligent power module (IPM) may be disposed in the control board, and a fan may be disposed in the heat sink.

[0037] In one embodiment, the fan may be configured as a centrifugal blower or a double-inlet blower.

[0038] In one embodiment, the exhaust volume of the fan can be greater than or equal to 0.1m 3 / min (cubic meter / minute) and less than or equal to 0.16m 3 / min.

[0039] In one embodiment, the radiator may include a plurality of heat sinks (fins) arranged along a first direction, the distance between the first heat sink and the last heat sink among the plurality of heat sinks arranged along the first direction may be less than a first length, the plurality of heat sinks may extend to a second length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the first length may be less than the diameter of the suction port of the fan, and the second length may be greater than the diameter of the suction port of the fan.

[0040] In one embodiment, the radiator provided in the control panel may be provided away from the compressor constituting the heat exchanger in the front-rear direction.

[0041] In an embodiment, the clothes treating apparatus may further include a steam generator configured to generate steam from the supplied water, and the steam generator may be arranged above the circulation duct.

[0042] In one embodiment, the clothes treating apparatus may further include an outdoor air duct configured to communicate with the outside of the casing and the circulation duct, and the exhaust port of the fan may be in communication with the outdoor air duct to guide air discharged from the fan to the outdoor air duct.

[0043] In one embodiment, the circulation duct may include: a chamber side inlet configured to communicate with the processing chamber and set to be opened and closed; and an outdoor air side inlet configured to communicate with the outdoor air duct and set to be opened and closed, when the outdoor air side inlet is closed, the air discharged from the fan can be guided to the outside of the casing, and when the chamber side inlet is closed and the outdoor air side inlet is opened, the air discharged from the fan can be guided to the circulation duct.

[0044] In one embodiment, the clothes processing apparatus may further include a circulation fan configured to generate air pressure so that the air flow in the circulation duct is guided from an upstream direction to a downstream direction, and when the chamber side inlet is closed and the outdoor air side inlet is opened, the air discharged from the fan may be guided to the circulation duct by the air pressure.

[0045] In one embodiment, the door may be provided with: a first flow path configured to communicate with the outside of the outdoor air duct and the clothes processing device at a position where the door closes the processing chamber; and a second flow path configured to communicate with the outside of the processing chamber and the clothes processing device at a position where the door closes the processing chamber, and when the chamber side inlet is closed and the outdoor air side inlet is opened, the air discharged from the fan may be guided to the circulation duct by air pressure, flow into the processing chamber, and then flow into the outside of the casing through the second flow path.

[0046] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a clothing processing apparatus includes: a casing; a processing chamber positioned inside the casing and configured to accommodate clothing; a door configured to open and close the processing chamber; a machine compartment disposed inside the casing and positioned in a lower portion of the processing chamber; a base module positioned in the machine compartment and configured to perform heat exchange with air in the processing chamber; a control panel positioned in a control panel mounting portion provided in a bottom portion of the machine compartment and configured to control a configuration of the clothing processing apparatus; and a fan disposed at a position vertically overlapping relative to the control panel and configured to discharge sucked air in a direction away from the control panel.

[0047] In one embodiment, the fan may be in communication with the outside of the clothes treating apparatus to discharge the sucked air to the outside of the clothes treating apparatus.

[0048] In one embodiment, the control board may have a mounting surface for mounting components thereon, and the mounting surface may face downward.

[0049] In one embodiment, the fan may be disposed below the control panel.

[0050] In one embodiment, the radiator may be disposed in the control panel, and the fan may be disposed at a position vertically overlapping the radiator.

[0051] In one embodiment, the heat sink can cool the intelligent power module (IPM) of the control board.

[0052] In one embodiment, the radiator provided in the control panel may be provided away from the compressor in the front-rear direction.

[0053] In one embodiment, the radiator may include a plurality of heat sinks, which are arranged along a first direction, relative to the first direction and in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The distance between the first heat sink and the last heat sink in the arrangement direction may be less than the first length. The plurality of heat sinks may extend to a second length in the second direction. The first length may be less than the diameter of the suction port of the fan, and the second length may be greater than the diameter of the suction port of the fan.

[0054] In one embodiment, the fan may be configured as a centrifugal blower.

[0055] In one embodiment, the centrifugal blower may be configured as a double-inlet blower.

[0056] In one embodiment, the exhaust volume of the centrifugal blower can be 0.1m 3 / min or greater.

[0057] In one embodiment, the exhaust volume of the centrifugal blower can be 0.16m 3 / min.

[0058] In one embodiment, the base module may include: a circulation duct configured to form a circulation flow path to discharge air introduced from the processing chamber back to the processing chamber, the heat exchanger may include an evaporator arranged in the circulation flow path; a condenser arranged in the circulation flow path; a compressor arranged in the circulation flow path; and a refrigerant pipe configured to transport refrigerant between the condenser and the compressor, and the control board mounting portion may be positioned in a lower portion of the circulation duct where the evaporator and the condenser are provided.

[0059] In an embodiment, the clothes treating apparatus may further include a steam generator configured to generate steam from the supplied water, and the steam generator may be arranged above the evaporator and the condenser.

[0060] In one embodiment, the exhaust port of the fan may be in communication with the circulation duct, and the air discharged from the fan may be guided to the circulation duct.

[0061] In one embodiment, the clothing processing apparatus may further include: a first filter positioned in the chamber side inlet; a second filter configured to divide the flow path of the circulation pipe into a first circulation flow path and a second circulation flow path by dividing the chamber side inlet into a first inlet and a second inlet; a first circulation flow path valve configured to open and close the first inlet; and a second circulation flow path valve configured to open and close the second inlet, the first circulation flow path may be a flow path through which the air flowing through the first inlet is directly transported to the evaporator and the condenser, and the second circulation flow path may be a flow path through which the air flowing through the second inlet is transported to the evaporator and the condenser via the second filter.

[0062] In one embodiment, the circulation duct may include: a chamber side inlet, which is configured to communicate with the processing chamber and is arranged upstream of the evaporator; an outdoor air side inlet, which is arranged upstream of the evaporator and the condenser; and an outlet, which is arranged downstream of the evaporator and the condenser. The base module may include an outdoor air duct, which is configured to communicate with the outdoor air side inlet and the outside of the clothing processing device; a first valve, which is configured to open and close the chamber side inlet; a second valve, which is configured to open and close the outdoor air side inlet; a circulation fan, which is configured to form air pressure so that the air flow in the circulation duct flows from any one of the chamber side inlet and the outdoor air side inlet to the outlet, and the exhaust outlet of the fan may be connected to the outdoor air duct to guide the air discharged from the fan to the outdoor air duct.

[0063] In one embodiment, the door may be provided with a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path being configured to communicate with the outdoor air duct and the outside of the clothes treating apparatus at a position where the door closes the treatment chamber, and the second flow path being configured to communicate with the outside of the treatment chamber and the clothes treating apparatus at a position where the door closes the treatment chamber.

[0064] In one embodiment, the first flow path may be a path connecting a bottom surface opening provided on the bottom surface of the door and a lower opening provided at a position communicating with an outdoor air duct in a lower portion of a rear surface of the door.

[0065] In one embodiment, the second flow path may be a path connecting a top surface opening provided on the top surface of the door and an upper opening provided at a position facing an opening of the processing chamber on the rear side of the door.

[0066] In one embodiment, the clothing processing apparatus may further include: a first filter positioned in the chamber side inlet; a second filter configured to divide the flow path of the circulation pipe into a first circulation flow path and a second circulation flow path by dividing the chamber side inlet into a first inlet and a second inlet; a first circulation flow path valve configured to open and close the first inlet; and a second circulation flow path valve configured to open and close the second inlet, the first circulation flow path may be a flow path through which the air flowing through the first inlet is directly transported to the evaporator and the condenser, and the second circulation flow path may be a flow path through which the air flowing through the second inlet is transported to the evaporator and the condenser via the second filter.

[0067] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, explosion caused by leakage of flammable refrigerant in a clothes treating apparatus equipped with a heat pump using the flammable refrigerant is effectively prevented.

[0068] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when high-density flammable refrigerant is deposited in the lower portion of the space, the refrigerant is effectively ventilated.

[0069] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, since a limited space can be effectively utilized, an additional space may not be required when providing a fan for ventilating flammable refrigerant.

[0070] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, areas where flammable refrigerant may explode due to sparks are centrally ventilated.

[0071] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a low-cost, high-efficiency structure for reducing the risk of explosion due to leakage of flammable refrigerant is provided.

[0072] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the problem of stopping the compressor due to an increase in temperature of an intelligent power module (IPM) caused by an increase in power consumption of the compressor when R-290 is used is solved.

[0073] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, since a control configuration is not added, overheating of the IPM is prevented while providing a fan for cooling the IPM and a fan for discharging leaked refrigerant.

[0074] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, space is effectively utilized while providing a fan for discharging leaked refrigerant.

[0075] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the blower is directly installed in the control box and the ignition point is set in the control box, so the blower is safer and the program time is reduced.

[0076] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a structure for reducing the size of a heat sink provided on a control board is provided. If the size of the heat sink is reduced, space efficiency is improved.

[0077] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the possibility of refrigerant explosion is prevented by operating the ventilator before the operation of other electrical equipment.

[0078] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, leaked refrigerant is effectively ventilated by performing a safety procedure in which a ventilator is first operated before performing a main procedure.

[0079] The effects achievable by the present disclosure are not limited to the contents specifically described above, and those skilled in the art can more clearly understand other advantages not described in this section from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0080] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application. They illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. In the drawings:

[0081] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0082] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an open state of the door 20 of the laundry processing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0083] Figure 3 Various configuration embodiments are shown located in a machine compartment;

[0084] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a base module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0085] Figure 5 and Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a heat exchanger 700 provided in the base module 1000;

[0086] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing a control board mounting portion 360;

[0087] Figure 8 The control board mounting portion 360 is shown with the blower 400 removed to provide a detailed description of the control board mounting portion 360;

[0088] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a control box 600 installed in the control board mounting portion 360;

[0089] Figure 10is a schematic diagram of the base portion 300 viewed from the back, for explaining the control box 600 mounted in the control board mounting portion 360;

[0090] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the control board mounting portion 360, wherein the base portion 300 is not shown;

[0091] Figure 12 and Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the fan 800, the control box 600 and the outdoor air duct 340;

[0092] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the fan 800 in the control box 600;

[0093] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the heat sink 620 and the fan 800 according to one embodiment;

[0094] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing the airflow discharge structure of the fan 800;

[0095] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing the refrigerant discharge path in a steam usage procedure;

[0096] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing a refrigerant discharge path in a drying process;

[0097] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram showing a refrigerant discharge path in an indoor dehumidification process;

[0098] Figure 20 1 is a schematic diagram showing a refrigerant discharge path in a non-course (no-course) process;

[0099] Figure 21 is an experimental diagram for confirming the refrigerant discharge effect, showing the refrigerant concentration near the control board 610; and

[0100] Figure 22 3 is an experimental diagram for confirming the refrigerant discharge effect, showing a graph of measuring the refrigerant concentration in the central portion of the processing chamber 35 and the second opening 32 when the clothes treating apparatus 1 is operated in the indoor dehumidification program. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0101] The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. The structure of the device or the control method to be described below only illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar components.

[0102] Specific terms used in this specification are for descriptive convenience only and do not limit the exemplary embodiments.

[0103] For example, expressions such as “same” and “identical” indicate not only a strictly identical state but also a state where there is tolerance or difference in the degree of achieving the same function.

[0104] In this specification, it should be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected to” or “coupled to” another element, the element may be directly connected to or coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present therebetween. Conversely, it should be understood that when an element is referred to as being “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0105] In this specification, terms such as "including" or "having" are intended to indicate the presence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, parts or their combinations used herein, and it should be understood that the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more different features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, parts or their combinations is not excluded.

[0106] For example, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangement, such as "in a certain direction", "along a certain direction", "parallel to", "orthogonal to", "centered to", "concentric to" and "coaxial to", not only strictly indicate such arrangement, but also indicate a state in which relative displacement is performed with a tolerance or angle or distance sufficient to obtain the same function.

[0107] The present disclosure will be described based on a spatial orthogonal coordinate system in which the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. Each axis direction (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, or Z-axis direction) relates to the two directions in which each axis extends. Each axis direction preceded by a "+" sign (+X-axis direction, +Y-axis direction, or +Z-axis direction) refers to the positive direction of one of the two directions in which each axis extends. Each axis direction preceded by a "-" sign (-X-axis direction, -Y-axis direction, and -Z-axis direction) refers to the negative direction of the other of the two directions in which each axis extends.

[0108] The terms used herein to indicate directions, such as "front (+Y)", "back (-Y)", "left (+X)", "right (-X)", "upper (+Z)", and "lower (-Z)", are defined by the X, Y, and Z coordinate axes, but these terms are used only for a better understanding of the present disclosure. That is, it is apparent that these directions may be defined differently depending on the position of the reference object.

[0109] The terms "first," "second," "third," and so on, used before components described herein are intended solely to avoid confusion between components. In other words, these terms have no bearing on the order, importance, or hierarchy of components. For example, an embodiment including only the second component and not the first component is also possible.

[0110] As used herein, the singular forms include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0111] In this specification, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items. In this specification, "A or B" may include "A", "B" or "both A and B".

[0112] <Example 1 of the Appearance of the Clothes Processing Device>

[0113] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a laundry processing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The appearance of the appearance processing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment will be described.

[0114] The cabinet 10 forms an outer appearance of the laundry treating apparatus 1. The cabinet 10 may be configured such that its height is longer than its width (width in the left-right direction) and thickness (width in the front-rear direction).

[0115] A door 20 is positioned at the front of the laundry treatment apparatus 1. The door 20 is coupled to the front side of the cabinet 10. In one embodiment, the door 20 is hinged to the cabinet 10. A front surface 21a of the door 20 may be provided with a handle 21 and an operating portion 22. A display that displays information about the laundry treatment apparatus 1 may be mounted on the operating portion 22.

[0116] The bottom surface 20c of the door 20 according to this embodiment is installed to be spaced apart from the floor by a set height H1. Since the bottom surface 20c of the door 20 is spaced apart from the floor (installation surface), outdoor air can flow into the clothes treating apparatus 1 through a door bottom surface opening formed in the bottom surface 20c of the door 20, which will be described later.

[0117] According to this embodiment, a top surface opening 26 b is formed in the top surface 20 d of the door 20 .

[0118] <Opening of the Processing Chamber 35 by Opening the Door 20>

[0119] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an open state of the door 20 of the laundry processing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 The interior of the clothes treating apparatus 1 exposed to the user when the door 20 is opened is described.

[0120] The inner shell 30 accommodates clothes and forms a processing chamber 35, which is a space for processing clothes. The inner shell 30 is located inside the casing 10. The front of the inner shell 30 is open to form an opening, and clothes are put in through the opening. The front of the inner shell 30 is open for clothes to be put in, thereby forming an opening. The inner shell 30 can be set to have a height that is longer than its width and thickness. Therefore, clothes can be placed in the processing chamber 35 without being folded or wrinkled. The inner shell 30 can be made of a plastic resin series, and can be made of a reinforced plastic resin series that will not be deformed by air with a temperature higher than room temperature air, heated air (hereinafter referred to as hot air), steam or moisture.

[0121] The upper inner surface of the inner shell 30 may be provided with a clothes rack (not shown) for holding the clothes in the treatment chamber 35. The clothes rack may be provided in the shape of a clothes hanger and may be fixed to the upper surface of the inner shell 30. Due to the clothes rack, the clothes can be placed in the treatment chamber 35 in an unfolded state. The clothes rack may be provided as a clothes hanger that reciprocates or rotatably reciprocates in the width direction within the inner shell 30. The clothes processing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment can use the clothes rack to shake the clothes in the inner shell 30. When the clothes are shaken, foreign matter and dust on the clothes can be removed, and wrinkles on the clothes can also be removed.

[0122] The height of the processing chamber 35 is lower than the overall height of the housing 10. A machine compartment is provided at the lower portion of the processing chamber 35. The processing chamber 35 and the machine compartment can be separated and partitioned by the inner shell 30 of the bottom plate portion 30a of the processing chamber 35.

[0123] Various devices are installed in the machine compartment. These devices may include: a device for supplying heated air (hereinafter referred to as hot air) to the processing chamber 35; a device for supplying steam to the processing chamber 35; and a device for purifying or dehumidifying the outdoor air in the housing 10. The various devices installed in the machine compartment will be described in detail later.

[0124] A plurality of openings may be formed in the wall of the inner housing 30 defining the processing chamber 35 so as to communicate with the machine compartment. In this embodiment, the plurality of openings may be formed in the bottom plate portion 30a. In this embodiment, air from the processing chamber 35 may be moved to the machine compartment through the openings, and one or more of hot air and steam generated in the machine compartment may be moved to the processing chamber 35.

[0125] In this embodiment, a first opening 31 , a second opening 32 , and a third opening 33 may be formed in the inner case 30 .

[0126] The first opening 31 is a passage for the air in the inner shell 30 to flow toward the machine compartment. The first opening 31 communicates with the chamber side inlet 324 of the circulation duct 320, which will be described later. The first opening 31 may be provided toward the front of the lower surface of the inner shell 30.

[0127] The second opening 32 is a passage for air supplied from the machine compartment to flow toward the inner housing 30. The second opening 32 communicates with the air blowing outlet 401 described later. The second opening 32 may be disposed toward the rear of the lower surface of the inner housing 30. Since the first opening 31 is formed toward the front and the second opening 32 is formed toward the rear, the spacing between the first opening 31 and the second opening 32 can be ensured, and the air supplied to the processing chamber 35 through the second opening 32 can be prevented from being discharged directly through the first opening 31.

[0128] The third opening 33 is a passage for steam supplied from the machine compartment to flow toward the inner casing 30. The third opening 33 communicates with the steam nozzle 510, which will be described later. The third opening 33 can be positioned closer to the second opening 32 than to the first opening 31. In this embodiment, the third opening 33 can be positioned transversely to the second opening 32. Since the spacing between the third opening 33 and the first opening 31 is maintained, steam discharged through the third opening 33 can be prevented from being discharged through the first opening 31.

[0129] A water supply and drainage tank 40 may be provided in the lower portion of the processing chamber 35. The water supply and drainage tank 40 may be provided in front of the machine compartment. The water supply and drainage tank 40 may be provided at a position exposed to the user when the door 20 is opened.

[0130] The water supply and drainage tank 40 may include a water supply tank 41 and a drainage tank 42. The water supply tank 41 stores water for supplying moisture to the treatment chamber 35. The drainage tank 42 collects condensed water inside the laundry treatment apparatus 1.

[0131] The water tank bracket 50 is configured to support the water supply and drainage tank 40. The water tank bracket 50 is located in front of the machine compartment and protects the machine compartment from being exposed to the outside. The water supply and drainage tank 40 can be attached to and detached from the water tank bracket 50. The water tanks 41 and 42 can be separated from the water tank bracket 50. The user can separate the water supply and drainage tank 40 from the water tank bracket 50 to fill the water tank 41 with water and discard the water collected in the water tank 42.

[0132] The lower opening 11a may be positioned below the water tank bracket 50. The lower opening 11a may be formed on the lower front panel 11. The lower front panel 11 may be positioned below the water tank bracket 50. Among the panels forming the cabinet 10, the lower front panel 11 may be positioned below the water tank bracket 50. The lower opening 11a communicates with an outdoor air inlet 345 of an outdoor air duct 340, which will be described later.

[0133] The gasket 28 may be installed on the periphery of the rear surface 20b of the door 20. When the door 20 is closed, the gasket 28 may be in close contact with the periphery of the process chamber 35, thereby sealing the process chamber 35.

[0134] When the door 20 is closed, the rear surface 20b of the door 20 may be formed with a protruding condensation water guide 29 that can be inserted into the interior of the processing chamber 35. The width of the condensation water guide 29 may correspond to the width of the opening of the processing chamber 35. The condensation water guide 29 may be provided near the bottom plate portion 30a of the processing chamber 35. The condensation water guide 29 guides moisture flowing along the wall of the door 20 to the bottom plate portion 30a of the processing chamber 35, thereby preventing the moisture from flowing into the machine compartment.

[0135] According to this embodiment, a door lower opening 25a is formed in the lower portion of the rear surface 20b of the door 20. The door lower opening 25a communicates with a door bottom surface opening formed in the bottom surface of the door 20 to form a first flow path through which air flows into the interior of the door. When the door 20 is closed, the door lower opening 25a faces the lower opening 11a. When the door 20 is closed, the door lower opening 25a communicates with the lower opening 11a.

[0136] According to this embodiment, an upper door opening 26a is formed in the rear surface 20b of the door 20. The upper door opening 26a communicates with the door top surface opening 26b formed in the top surface 20d of the door 20 to form a second flow path through which air flows into the interior of the door. When the door 20 is closed, the upper door opening 26a faces the processing chamber 35. When the door 20 is closed, the upper door opening 26a communicates with the processing chamber 35. The upper door opening 26a may be positioned at a portion corresponding to the upper portion of the processing chamber 35.

[0137] In this embodiment, the rear surface 20b of the door 20 may include a clothing pressurizing device 60 capable of pressurizing clothing, and a support 65 disposed above the clothing pressurizing device 60 to support the hanging clothing. The support 65 according to this embodiment may be provided in the form of a ring from which a hanger may be hung. The clothing pressurizing device 60 according to this embodiment may utilize a pivoting pressurizing plate 61 to pressurize clothing hung on the support 65. The clothing pressurizing device 60 pressurizes the clothing hung on the support 65, thereby removing wrinkles or forming desired wrinkles.

[0138] <Embodiments of Various Configurations Positioned in a Machine Compartment>

[0139] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining embodiments of various configurations positioned in a machine compartment.

[0140] The machine compartment is located at the upper part of the cabinet bottom plate 15. Figure 3 Describe the various mechanical devices located in the machine compartment.

[0141] The base module 1000 is installed in the machine compartment. The base module 1000 according to this embodiment may be configured as a module including the blower 400, the steam generator 500, the control box 600, and the heat exchanger 700 (see FIG. Figure 5 ).

[0142] The base module 1000 includes a base portion 300. The base portion 300 provides a space for installing each device and can be used as a support for supporting various devices. In addition, the base portion 300 itself can be used as a pipe.

[0143] The water supply and drainage box 40 may be positioned at the front of the base module 1000. The base module 1000 may be positioned at the rear of the water supply and drainage box 40. The base module 1000 may be shielded from the outside by the water tank bracket 50 in which the water supply and drainage box 40 is installed. Figure 3 A water tank support plate 51 is shown, which is part of the water tank bracket 50 .

[0144] <Embodiment of Base Module 1000>

[0145] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a base module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 The base module 1000 is described in more detail.

[0146] The base portion 300 is provided with a circulation conduit 320. The circulation conduit 320 may be formed by the base portion 300. The circulation conduit 320 forms a circulation flow path 320a (see Figure 6), air moves through this circulation flow path.

[0147] The base portion 300 may include a duct body 321, a duct cover 322, and a duct inlet 323, which constitute the circulation duct 320. According to this embodiment, the duct inlet 323 is formed on the duct cover 322. The duct inlet 323 may be formed to protrude upward from the duct cover 322. The duct body 321 forms a space with an open upper portion. The open top surface of the duct body 321 is covered by the duct cover 322.

[0148] The chamber side inlet 324 is formed in the duct inlet 323. The chamber side inlet 324 may include a first inlet 324a and a second inlet 324b. The first inlet 324a and the second inlet 324b may be separated by a second filter mounting portion 325.

[0149] In this embodiment, a first valve 326 is installed at the chamber-side inlet 324. The first valve 326 opens and closes the chamber-side inlet 324. The first valve 326 may include a first circulation flow path valve 326a and a second circulation flow path valve 326b. The first circulation flow path valve 326a opens and closes the first inlet 324a. The second circulation flow path valve 326b opens and closes the second inlet 324b.

[0150] The first filter 910 (see Figure 17 ) is disposed at the chamber-side inlet 324. The first filter 910 may include a first inlet filter 911 and a second inlet filter 912. The first inlet filter 911 is disposed at the first inlet 324a. The second inlet filter 912 is disposed at the second inlet 324b. The first inlet filter 911 and the second inlet filter 912 can be removed from the device by the user for cleaning or replacement.

[0151] The control board mounting portion 360 may be provided at a lower portion of the duct body 321. The control box 600 is mounted in the control board mounting portion 360. The control board mounting portion 360 and the control box 600 will be described in detail later.

[0152] The blower 400 is installed at the rear of the duct body 321. The blower 400 creates air pressure that generates air flow through the circulation flow path 320a. The blower 400 creates air flow so that the air of the circulation flow path 320a is discharged to the air blowing outlet 401.

[0153] The steam generator 500 generates steam using water supplied from the water tank 41. The steam generator 500 can be supported on the base portion 300. The steam generator 500 can be positioned at the top surface of the duct cover 322. The steam nozzle 510 is configured to discharge the steam generated by the steam generator 500. Since AC current is supplied to the steam generator 500, there is a risk of explosion due to sparks when the current comes into contact with the leaked refrigerant. Since the leaked refrigerant has a high density and sinks to the bottom plate, the steam generator 500 can be advantageously arranged at the top. In this embodiment, the steam generator 500 is positioned above the heat exchanger 700.

[0154] One end of the outdoor air duct 340 is connected to the circulation duct 320, and an outdoor air inlet 345 (i.e., the other end of the outdoor air duct 340) is connected to the outside. The outdoor air duct 340 is configured to communicate with the outdoor air and the circulation duct 320. The outdoor air inlet 345 faces the lower opening 11a of the lower front panel 11 and can communicate with the outdoor air.

[0155] <Example of Heat Exchanger 700>

[0156] Figure 5 and Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the heat exchanger 700 provided in the base module 1000 .

[0157] The heat exchanger 700 according to an embodiment includes an evaporator 710, a condenser 720, and a compressor 730. The heat exchanger 700 may further include an expansion valve 740 and a refrigerant pipe 750 connected to the expansion valve 740.

[0158] The evaporator 710 and the condenser 720 are positioned in a circulation flow path 320a, which is located inside the circulation pipe 320. In this embodiment, the compressor 730 and the expansion valve 740 are positioned outside the circulation pipe 320.

[0159] Evaporator 710 cools and condenses the air. Compressor 730 receives refrigerant from evaporator 710, compresses and heats the refrigerant. Condenser 720 receives refrigerant from compressor 730 and heats the air. Expansion valve 740 expands the refrigerant that has passed through condenser 720 to lower its temperature. The refrigerant can be a refrigerant with a low Global Warranty Value (GWP) such as R-290. The refrigerant may be flammable.

[0160] The air in the processing chamber 35 flows into the circulation flow path 320a through the chamber side inlet 324. The air flows along the circulation flow path 320a from the chamber side inlet 324 and flows through the evaporator 710 and the condenser 720. The evaporator 710 cools and dehumidifies the air flowing through the circulation flow path 320a. The condenser 720 heats the air that has flowed through the evaporator 710 to form hot air. The outlet 327a of the duct body 321 (see Figure 8 ) is positioned downstream of the condenser 720. The outlet 327a may be defined by an outlet conduit 327.

[0161] The blower 400 generates air pressure so that the air flow in the circulation duct 320 is guided toward the outlet 327a. The air dehumidified and heated in the circulation flow path 320a passes through the outlet 327a along the air flow generated by the blower 400 and is discharged to the air blowing outlet 401.

[0162] <Embodiment of Control Board Mounting Portion 360>

[0163] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the control board mounting portion 360 . Figure 8 The control board mounting portion 360 is shown with the blower 400 removed to illustrate the control board mounting portion 360 in detail.

[0164] The control box 600 is installed in the control board installation part 360. The control box 600 can supply power to various components (such as the heat exchanger 700, the steam generator 500, the blower 400, and the fan 800) constituting the laundry processing device 1. Alternatively, the control box 600 controls various components constituting the laundry processing device 1, such as the heat exchanger 700, the steam generator 500, the blower 400, and the fan 800. The control box 600 is configured to control all electronic control components, such as the heat exchanger 700, the steam generator 500, and the blower 400, and can execute various programs and options for processing laundry.

[0165] In this embodiment, the control board mounting portion 360 is positioned below the duct body 321. In this embodiment, the control board mounting portion 360 may be provided between the base bottom plate portion 311 and the duct body 321. The control board mounting portion 360 may be provided at a lower portion of the circulation duct 320 where the evaporator 710 and the condenser 720 are arranged.

[0166] The control panel mounting portion 360 is positioned at the bottom of the machine compartment. The control panel mounting portion 360 can be provided in an open duct shape at either the front or rear. The control panel mounting portion 360 is provided with an installation space 360a into which the control box 600 can be inserted.

[0167] Figure 9 3 is a schematic diagram showing the control box 600 mounted in the control board mounting portion 360 . Figure 10 3 is a schematic diagram of the base portion 300 viewed from the rear, for explaining the control box 600 mounted in the control board mounting portion 360. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The control box 600 mounted in the control board mounting portion 360 is described.

[0168] The control board mounting portion 360 is disposed in a lower portion of the duct body 321 constituting the circulation duct 320. The bottom plate of the duct body 321 may form a top surface of the control board mounting portion 360. The control board mounting portion 360 may be integrally formed with the base bottom plate portion 311.

[0169] The control box 600 is inserted into the control board mounting portion 360 and supported on the upper portion of the control board mounting portion 360. The control box 600 is spaced apart from the base bottom plate portion 311. The control box 600 can be inserted from the rear of the control board mounting portion 360 toward the front thereof in a sliding manner.

[0170] The control box 600 may further include a bracket 650 surrounding the control board 610. The bracket 650 forms the periphery of the control box 600 and may prevent foreign matter from entering the control board 610. The bracket 650 may be made of a metal material. The control box 600 may be supported by the bracket 650 and placed on the control board mounting portion 360. The control box 600 may be supported by a protrusion formed on the bracket 650 and a protrusion 3613 protruding from the control board mounting portion 360 (see FIG. 3 ). Figure 11 ) are mutually connected and supported on the control board mounting portion 360.

[0171] The control box 600 can be installed at an angle relative to the base bottom plate portion 311. For example, the control box 600 can be spaced farther from the base bottom plate portion 311 on the outside than on the inside. Since the control box 600 is tilted, if water leaks to the upper portion of the control box 600, the water can flow out of the control box 600 quickly.

[0172] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the control board mounting portion 360, wherein the base portion 300 is not shown.

[0173] External power can be provided to operate each component of the clothing treatment device 1. The external power can be provided by AC or high-voltage DC. In this case, there is a possibility of combustion due to arcing at the AC or high-voltage DC terminals. If the refrigerant (such as R-290) is maintained at a certain concentration or higher, there is a risk of combustion in the control box 600. Therefore, it is important to ventilate the interior of the control board mounting portion 360 to ensure the stability of the clothing treatment device using flammable refrigerants. In the case of conventional clothing treatment devices, the control box is arranged in the upper part of the casing. Therefore, even if high-density R-290 is used, the possibility of flammable refrigerant combustion in the control box is not high. In the clothing treatment device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the control board mounting portion 360 and the control box 600 are arranged in the lower part of the clothing treatment device. Therefore, if the flammable refrigerant leaks, there is a higher possibility of the flammable refrigerant in the control box 600 burning.

[0174] The base portion 300 may include a control board mounting portion 360. The control box 600 is mounted in the control board mounting portion 360. The control box 600 is provided with a control board 610.

[0175] The control board mounting portion 360 is positioned inside the housing 10 and may be disposed below the processing chamber 30. In this embodiment, the control board mounting portion 360 may be disposed below the duct body 321. A bottom plate surface 3212 of the duct body 321 of the bottom plate forming the circulation flow path 320a may form a top surface of the control board mounting portion 360.

[0176] Of the partition walls 3611 and 3612 forming both sides of the control board mounting portion 360 in the width direction, the partition wall 3611 forming one side of the control board mounting portion 360 may form an outer wall of the base portion 300. Support protrusions 3613 for supporting the control box 600 may be formed on the partition walls 3611 and 3612 in the width direction of the control board mounting portion 360.

[0177] In this embodiment, ventilation holes 395 may be formed in the lower portion of the base portion 300. The ventilation holes 395 may ventilate the lower portion of the base portion 300. The ventilation holes 395 may be formed in the partition walls 3611 and 3612 and may be appropriately formed where refrigerant ventilation is required.

[0178] A bypass flow path 397 may be formed in the base portion 300. The bypass flow path 397 may be provided on the bottom surface of the base portion 300. The bypass flow path 397 may form a ventilation flow path 390 together with the ventilation holes 395. The bypass flow path 397 may be positioned below the circulation flow path 320a. The bottom plate surface of the circulation flow path 320a may form the top surface of the bypass flow path 397.

[0179] In both sides of the control board mounting portion 360 , a control portion penetration hole 391 may be formed in a partition wall 3612 toward the bypass flow path 397 .

[0180] A tube arrangement portion 314 is provided on one side of the base portion 300 located near the compressor mounting portion 312, and the refrigerant tube 750 and the expansion valve 740 of the heat exchanger 700 are arranged in the tube arrangement portion 314. The circulation flow path 320a can be provided so as to be offset to one side in the width direction of the base portion 300. The tube arrangement portion 314 can be provided on the other side in the width direction of the base portion 300. That is, the tube arrangement portion 314 can be provided on one side of the circulation flow path 320a.

[0181] The ventilation holes 395 may include tube-side through-holes 392 formed in the partition wall forming the bypass flow path 397. The tube-side through-holes 392 may form a fluid path that can flow to the upper portion of the base portion 300 and the bottom surface of the base portion 300. Refrigerant or air accumulated on the top surface of the base portion 300 can move to the bottom surface of the base portion 300 through the tube-side through-holes 392. According to this embodiment, flammable refrigerant deposited on the tube arrangement portion 314 can be ventilated through the bottom surface of the base portion 300 using the tube-side through-holes 392. Due to its high density, the refrigerant moves downward. The tube-side through-holes 392 serve as a path that can effectively discharge the refrigerant that has moved from the upper side to the lower side.

[0182] The duct body 321 may include a heat exchanger 700 and a water collection portion 328 in which water condensed in the evaporator 710 is stored. The water collection portion 328 may be formed by stepping down a portion of the bottom plate surface 3212 of the circulation duct 320. A water collection bottom plate surface 3281, which is the bottom plate surface of the water collection portion 328, may form the top surface of the bypass flow path 397. The bypass flow path 397 may be formed on the lower side of the water collection bottom plate surface 3281. The upper portion of the water collection bottom plate surface 3281 may form the circulation duct 320, and the lower portion thereof may form the bottom surface of the base portion 300.

[0183] <Fan 800 for discharging refrigerant and cooling the control box 600>

[0184] Figure 12 and Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the fan 800, the control box 600 and the outdoor air duct 340. Figure 12 and Figure 13 Describe the location where the fan 800 is installed.

[0185] The control panel 610 is provided with a control box 600. A bracket 650 may surround the periphery of the control panel 610. A fan 800 may be positioned in the control box 600. The fan 800 may be arranged in a vertically overlapping position relative to the control panel 610. The fan 800 cools the components of the control panel 610. The fan 800 is arranged within the housing 10 near the bottom plate. The fan 800 is arranged below the control panel 610. The fan 800 discharges the drawn air away from the control panel 610. The fan 800 disperses the airflow from the bottom plate of the machine compartment. In other words, if flammable refrigerant leaks, the fan 800 disperses the flammable refrigerant that has accumulated on the bottom plate due to its high density. The fan 800 is used to reduce the concentration of the flammable refrigerant accumulated on the bottom plate. If the fan 800 reduces the concentration of the flammable refrigerant to below the lower explosion limit, the possibility of an explosion becomes significantly lower.

[0186] The fan 800 is configured as a centrifugal blower. According to this embodiment, the fan 800 is configured as a double-inlet blower.

[0187] An outdoor air side inlet 321a is formed in the front portion of the duct body 321 in the base portion 300. The outdoor air side inlet 321a is positioned upstream of the evaporator 710 and the condenser 720 in the circulation flow path 320a. The outdoor air side inlet 321a may be formed in a rectangular shape. The outdoor air side inlet 321a may be opened and closed by a second valve 350. The second valve 350 may include a second valve plate 351 and a valve drive source 355 that provides power to switch the position of the second valve plate 351 between an open position and a closed position. In this embodiment, the second valve 350 can open or close the outdoor air side inlet 321a by driving the second valve plate 351 to rotate about a rotation axis.

[0188] The outdoor air duct 340 is configured to communicate with the outdoor air side inlet 321a and the outside of the laundry processing device 1. One side of the outdoor air duct 340 is in contact with the circulation duct 320. One side of the outdoor air duct 340 is provided to communicate with the outdoor air side inlet 321a. An outdoor air inlet 345 is formed on the other side of the outdoor air duct 340, and the outdoor air inlet 345 is in contact with the side connected to the outside.

[0189] In this embodiment, the fan 800 is connected to the outside of the laundry processing device 1 to discharge the sucked air to the outside of the laundry processing device 1. In this embodiment, the fan 800 is connected to the outdoor air duct 340. In this embodiment, the outdoor air duct 340 includes an external communication portion 341 and a fan communication portion 347. The fan communication portion 347 is a duct extending in a direction toward the fan 800. The fan communication portion 347 and the external communication portion 34 are connected to each other. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 can be connected to the fan communication portion 347 to communicate with the outdoor air flow path 340a of the outdoor air duct 340.

[0190] The mounting portion front opening 360b can be formed in the front portion of the control panel mounting portion 360 in the base portion 300. The fan communication portion 347 extends toward the mounting portion front opening 360b. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 is positioned toward the mounting portion front opening 360b. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 and the fan communication portion 347 are connected to each other through the mounting portion front opening 360b. The air discharged through the exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 is guided through the fan communication portion 347. The air that has passed through the fan communication portion 347 is guided to the outdoor air flow path 340a of the outdoor air duct 340.

[0191] When the second valve 350 is in a position to open the outdoor air side inlet 321a, the air discharged from the blower 800 can be guided to the circulation duct 320. The blower 400 forms an airflow in a direction from the outdoor air side inlet 321a toward the outlet 327a. Therefore, when the second valve 350 is in a position to open the outdoor air side inlet 321a, the airflow guided to the outdoor air flow path 340a is guided to the circulation flow path 320a. According to this embodiment, the discharge port 820 of the blower 800 is communicated with the circulation duct 320 through the outdoor air duct 340. In another embodiment, the discharge port 820 of the blower 800 can be directly connected to the circulation duct 320 to be communicated with it.

[0192] In this embodiment, the fan 800 is disposed below the control board 610. According to this embodiment, the control board 610 has a mounting surface on which components are mounted, and the mounting surface faces downward. By arranging the mounting surface with components mounted thereon to face downward, dust can be prevented from accumulating on the components and the control box 600 can be prevented from overheating.

[0193] The heat sink 620 may be provided in the control board 610. The heat sink 620 may cool an intelligent power module (IPM) provided in the control board 610. According to this embodiment, the fan 800 is provided at a position overlapping with the heat sink 620 in a vertical direction.

[0194] <Example of Arrangement of Fan 800 in Control Box 600>

[0195] Figure 14 It is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of the fan 800 in the control box 600. Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the control box 600 viewed from below according to an embodiment.

[0196] The control board 610 is disposed within the control box 600. The control board 610 can be positioned so that the mounting surface on which the components are mounted faces the floor. These components are independent parts or devices that form components of a circuit and have independent functions. A radiator 620 is disposed within the control board 610. The radiator 620 cools the components of the control board 610. In this embodiment, the radiator 620 can be configured as an IPM for cooling the control board. The radiator 620 can be positioned facing the IPM.

[0197] The fan 800 is arranged at a position overlapping with the radiator 620 in the vertical direction.

[0198] The suction port 810 of the blower 800 is arranged to overlap with the radiator 620 in the vertical direction. The discharge port 820 of the blower 800 can be arranged to face forward. The discharge port 820 of the blower 800 is arranged to face the direction of communication with the outdoor air. In this embodiment, since the flow path communicating with the outside of the laundry processing device 1 is formed at the front of the laundry processing device 1, the discharge port 820 of the blower 800 is arranged to face the front. The discharge port 820 of the blower 800 can be connected to a guide pipe 850. The guide pipe 850 can guide the airflow direction of the discharge port 820.

[0199] In this embodiment, the IPM and the radiator 620 are arranged away from the compressor 730. In this embodiment, the IPM and the radiator 620 are arranged on the front side (+Y) of the control board 610. Since the compressor 730 is positioned on the rear side (-Y) of the base module 1000, the spacing between them can be ensured to prevent overheating. In addition, refrigerant can leak from the compressor 730, and the IPM is arranged away from the compressor 730, thereby reducing the concentration of refrigerant reaching the IPM and thus reducing the risk of explosion. The fan 800 can form an airflow in a direction away from the portion where the compressor 730 is arranged. According to this embodiment, since the compressor 730 is set on the rear side (-Y) of the base module 1000, the fan 800 can form an airflow toward the front side (+Y) of the base module 1000.

[0200] <Relationship between Radiator 620 and Fan 800 According to Embodiment>

[0201] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between the radiator 620 and the fan 800 according to an embodiment.

[0202] The heat sink 620 includes a plurality of fins 621. The fins 621 are arranged along a first direction. Among the fins 621 arranged along the first direction, the distance between the first fin 621a and the last fin 621b may be a first length L1. The fins 621 may extend in a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction. The fins 621 may extend for a second length L2.

[0203] In this embodiment, the first length L1 is smaller than the diameter D1 of the suction port 810 of the blower 800. According to this embodiment, the second length L2 is larger than the diameter D1 of the suction port 810 of the blower 800.

[0204] According to this embodiment, according to the arrangement of the fan 800 and the heat sink 620 , a flow path may be formed between the plurality of heat sinks 621 , so that heat may be smoothly dissipated at a position away from the suction port 810 .

[0205] Although the fan 800 is used to form an air flow for discharging leaked refrigerant, the fan 800 may also be generally used as a fan for cooling the IPM.

[0206] When the temperature of the IPM rises above 120 degrees Celsius (C), compressor 730 stops. Conventionally, there has been a phenomenon in which the IPM overheats and compressor 730 stops. However, when the structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is applied, the temperature of the IPM does not rise above 90 degrees Celsius, so compressor 730 can continue to operate. This increases the reliability of the equipment and can shorten the program time.

[0207] <Airflow Exhaust Structure>

[0208] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating the airflow discharge structure of the fan 800. Because the control board mounting portion 360 is located below the base portion 300, refrigerant R, which has a higher density than atmospheric air, may accumulate on the bottom surface. Refrigerant R accumulated in the control board mounting portion 360 is highly likely to cause combustion in the control board 610. The fan 800 effectively ventilates the air in the control board mounting portion 360, thereby ensuring the stability of the laundry treatment apparatus 1.

[0209] In addition, fan 800 can continuously cool control board 610. That is, fan 800 can function as a cooling fan for control board 610. When using R-290 refrigerant, the power consumption of compressor 730 increases, and the temperature of the IPM continues to rise, which may cause compressor 730 to stop. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the IPM can be cooled, thereby resolving the problem of compressor 730 stopping.

[0210] In an embodiment, the fan 800 is provided as a dual-inlet blower. The fan 800 is disposed below the radiator 620. The fan 800 discharges heat from the radiator 620 upward to the outside. The fan 800 draws refrigerant downward and discharges the refrigerant to the outside.

[0211] The fan 800 is connected to the outdoor air duct 340. The fan 800 can be connected to the outdoor air duct 340 through the fan communication portion 347. The airflow discharged from the fan 800 flows into the outdoor air flow path 340a of the outdoor air duct 340 through the fan communication portion 347. Depending on whether the second valve plate 351 is open, the airflow discharged from the fan 800 and flowing into the outdoor air flow path 340a is discharged to the outside through the outdoor air inlet 345, or flows into the circulation flow path 320a and moves to the processing chamber 35.

[0212] <Airflow according to equipment operating status>

[0213] According to an embodiment, the flow path of the laundry treating apparatus 1 may be changed according to a treatment program or cycle. Figures 17 to 20 A discharge structure of the refrigerant according to an operating state of the clothes treating apparatus 1 is described.

[0214] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating a refrigerant discharge path in a steam use program; although not shown for ease of description, the processing chamber 35 is in a state where laundry is hung.

[0215] During the steam use program, a first circulation flow path that does not pass through the second filter 920 is selected. The second filter 920 can be a HEPA filter. It is desirable that the HEPA filter not be exposed to steam. Therefore, during the steam use program, the circulating airflow can be drawn into the circulation flow path 320a through the first inlet 324a in the processing chamber 35, so that the circulating airflow does not pass through the second filter 920. The airflow flowing into the circulation flow path 320a can be dehumidified and heated by the evaporator 710 and the condenser 720, and then supplied to the processing chamber 35. During the steam use program, the second valve plate 351 is in the closed position, thereby not communicating with the outdoor air. The circulation flow path 320a and the outdoor air flow path 340a are separated by the second valve plate 351. The exhaust port of the fan 800 is connected to the outdoor air flow path 340a. The airflow discharged from the fan 800 is directed to the outdoor air flow path 340a. The airflow directed to the outdoor air flow path 340a is discharged to the outside of the laundry processing apparatus 1 through the first flow path 25 formed in the lower portion of the door 20. The first flow path 25 is a flow path through which the door lower opening 25a and the door bottom surface opening 25b communicate with each other. The airflow directed to the outdoor air flow path 340a is conveyed to the first flow path 25 through the door lower opening 25a and discharged to the outside of the laundry processing apparatus 1 through the door bottom surface opening 25b.

[0216] Figure 18 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a refrigerant discharge path in a drying process. Although not shown for ease of description, the processing chamber 35 is in a state where laundry is hung.

[0217] During the drying cycle, a second circulation flow path passing through the second filter 920 can be selected. To allow airflow to pass through the second filter 920, air can be drawn into the circulation flow path 320a through the second inlet 324b in the treatment chamber 35. The airflow flowing into the circulation flow path 320a is filtered by the second filter 920, dehumidified and heated by the evaporator 710 and condenser 720, and then supplied to the treatment chamber 35. During the laundry drying cycle, the second valve plate 351 is in a closed position to prevent access to outdoor air. The circulation flow path 320a and the outdoor air flow path 340a are separated by the second valve plate 351. The exhaust port of the fan 800 is connected to the outdoor air flow path 340a. The airflow discharged from the fan 800 is directed to the outdoor air flow path 340a. The airflow directed to the outdoor air flow path 340a is discharged to the exterior of the laundry treatment apparatus 1 through the first flow path 25 formed in the lower portion of the door 20. The airflow guided to the outdoor air flow path 340a is delivered to the first flow path 25 through the door lower opening 25a and discharged to the outside of the laundry treating apparatus 1 through the door bottom surface opening 25b.

[0218] Figure 19 Schematic diagram showing the refrigerant discharge path in the indoor dehumidification program. The indoor dehumidification program is not a program for treating laundry stored in the treatment chamber 35, but rather a program for dehumidifying the space in which the laundry treatment apparatus 1 is installed. In other words, the indoor dehumidification program is a program in which air outside the laundry treatment apparatus 1 is drawn into the heat exchanger, dehumidified, and then discharged to the outside of the laundry treatment apparatus 1.

[0219] When the indoor dehumidification program is selected, the second valve plate 351 moves to the open position. The circulation flow path 320a and the outdoor air flow path 340a are connected to each other. The first inlet 324a and the second inlet 324b are closed. When the blower 400 is operating, outdoor air flows into the outdoor air flow path 340a through the first flow path 25 formed in the lower portion of the door 20. The outdoor air flowing into the outdoor air flow path 340a moves to the circulation flow path 320a. The outdoor air flowing into the circulation flow path 320a can be dehumidified and heated by the evaporator 710 and the condenser 720, and then guided to the treatment chamber 35. The air guided to the treatment chamber 35 is discharged to the outside of the laundry treatment device 1 through the second flow path 26 formed in the upper portion of the door 20. The second flow path 26 is a flow path that connects the door upper opening 26a and the door top surface opening 26b to each other. The door upper opening 26a of the second flow path 26 is closed by the second flow path opening / closing valve 261 during the laundry treatment course, and may be opened when the indoor dehumidification course is selected.

[0220] The exhaust port of the fan 800 is connected to the outdoor air flow path 340a. The airflow discharged from the fan 800 is guided to the outdoor air flow path 340a. The airflow guided to the outdoor air flow path 340a moves along the air flow to the circulation flow path 320a and moves to the processing chamber 35.

[0221] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing a refrigerant discharge path in the empty process.

[0222] When the laundry processing apparatus 1 is not in operation or in an idle cycle, the circulation flow path 320a and the outdoor air flow path 340a are separated by the second valve plate 351. The airflow discharged from the fan 800 is guided to the outdoor air flow path 340a. The airflow guided to the outdoor air flow path 340a is discharged to the outside of the laundry processing apparatus 1 through the first flow path 25 formed in the lower portion of the door 20.

[0223] <Refrigerant Discharge Performance and Specifications of Fan 800>

[0224] Figure 21This is an experimental diagram used to confirm the refrigerant discharge effect. Figure 21 Graph showing the refrigerant concentration near the control panel 610 .

[0225] The refrigerant concentration near the ignition point should be diluted to below the lower explosion limit. When fine cracks appeared in refrigerant pipe 750 and refrigerant leaked at 84 g / h (grams / hour), the refrigerant concentration remained at 5% to 10%, which is 2% higher than the lower explosion limit. However, when fan 800 was driven, the refrigerant concentration dropped to 0% within 30 seconds.

[0226] In this embodiment, the fan 800 has a specification that can reduce the concentration of the refrigerant to below the lower explosion limit within 30 seconds. In this embodiment, the fan 800 is configured as a double-inlet centrifugal blower. The exhaust volume of the fan 800 according to this embodiment is 0.1m 3 / min or greater.

[0227] In this embodiment, the fan 800 has specifications that can increase user convenience by taking noise into consideration. In this embodiment, the fan 800 is configured as a double-inlet centrifugal blower. The exhaust volume of the fan 800 according to this embodiment is 0.16m 3 / min or lower.

[0228] Figure 22 This is an experimental diagram used to confirm the refrigerant discharge effect. Figure 22 3 is a graph measuring the refrigerant concentration in the central portion of the processing chamber 35 and the second opening 32 when the clothes treating apparatus 1 is operated in the indoor dehumidification course.

[0229] When the blower 400 is driven, the refrigerant is rapidly diluted, and a refrigerant concentration below the explosion range is observed in both the central portion of the processing chamber 35 and the second opening 32 .

[0230] In this specification, specific embodiments have been illustrated. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that the specific embodiments shown can be replaced with any planned reconstruction to achieve the same purpose, and that the disclosed disclosure can be applied differently in different environments. That is, this application should be understood to cover any application or variation of the present disclosure. The appended claims are not limited to the scope of disclosure of the specific embodiments of this specification. Therefore, when a modified embodiment includes a component of a claim of the present disclosure, the modification should be deemed to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A clothes processing device, characterized in that: include: chassis; a processing chamber positioned within the housing and configured to receive clothing; a door configured to open and close the processing chamber; a heat exchanger positioned within the housing, disposed in a lower portion of the processing chamber and configured to exchange heat with air in the processing chamber using a flammable refrigerant; a control board positioned within the housing, disposed in a lower portion of the processing chamber and configured to control the heat exchanger; as well as The fan is configured to cool the control board, is disposed near the bottom plate in the housing, and is configured to disperse the airflow of the bottom plate in the housing.

2. The clothes processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The exhaust port of the fan is communicated with the outside of the casing to discharge the sucked air to the outside of the casing.

3. The clothes processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that The control board has a mounting surface on which components are mounted, the mounting surface facing downward, and Wherein, the fan is arranged below the control panel.

4. The clothes processing device according to claim 3, characterized in that: Also included is a circulation duct positioned within the housing, the circulation duct being disposed below the processing chamber and configured to form a circulation flow path that exhausts air introduced from the processing chamber back into the processing chamber, Wherein, the control panel is arranged below the circulation pipe.

5. The clothes processing device according to claim 4, characterized in that: An exhaust port of the blower fan is in communication with the circulation duct, and air discharged from the blower fan is guided to the circulation duct.

6. The clothes processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that A heat sink configured to cool an intelligent power module (IPM) is provided on the control board, and the fan is provided on the heat sink.

7. The clothes processing device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The fan is configured as a centrifugal blower or a double-inlet blower.

8. The clothes processing device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The exhaust volume of the fan is greater than or equal to 0.1m 3 / min and less than or equal to 0.16m 3 / min.

9. The clothes processing device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The heat sink includes a plurality of heat dissipation fins arranged along a first direction, wherein a distance between a first heat sink and a last heat sink of the plurality of heat sinks arranged along the first direction is less than a first length, wherein the plurality of heat sinks extend to a second length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the first length is smaller than the diameter of the suction port of the fan, and The second length is greater than the diameter of the suction port of the fan.

10. The clothes processing device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The radiator provided in the control panel is provided away from a compressor constituting the heat exchanger in a front-rear direction.

11. The clothes processing device according to claim 4, characterized in that: Also included is a steam generator configured to generate steam from supplied water, The steam generator is arranged above the circulation pipeline.

12. The clothes processing device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The machine further includes an outdoor air duct configured to communicate with the outside of the casing and the circulation duct. The exhaust port of the fan is in communication with the outdoor air duct so as to guide the air exhausted from the fan to the outdoor air duct.

13. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that: The circulation pipeline comprises: a chamber-side inlet configured to communicate with the processing chamber and configured to be openable and closable; and an outdoor air side inlet, configured to communicate with the outdoor air duct and configured to be openable and closable, When the outdoor air side inlet is closed, the air discharged from the fan is guided to the outside of the casing, and When the chamber-side inlet is closed and the outdoor air-side inlet is opened, the air discharged from the fan is guided to the circulation duct.

14. The clothes treating device according to claim 13, characterized in that: The circulating fan is configured to generate air pressure so as to guide the air flow in the circulating duct from an upstream direction to a downstream direction. When the chamber-side inlet is closed and the outdoor air-side inlet is opened, the air discharged from the fan is guided to the circulation duct by air pressure.

15. The clothes treating apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that: The door is provided with: a first flow path configured to communicate with the outdoor air duct and the exterior of the laundry treating apparatus at a position where the door closes the treating chamber, and a second flow path configured to communicate with the treatment chamber and the exterior of the laundry treatment apparatus at a position where the door closes the treatment chamber, and When the chamber side inlet is closed and the outdoor air side inlet is opened, the air discharged from the fan is guided to the circulation duct by air pressure, flows into the processing chamber, and then flows into the outside of the casing through the second flow path.

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