Clothing processing equipment

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet, a processing chamber located inside the cabinet for storing clothing, a door for opening and closing the processing chamber, a machine room located inside the cabinet and below the processing chamber, a base module located in the machine room and including a heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the air in the processing chamber, a control board located in a control board mounting section at the bottom of the machine room for controlling the configuration of the garment processing device, and a fan positioned to overlap the control board vertically and to discharge the inhaled air away from the control board.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothes processing apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a clothes processing apparatus capable of deodorizing, drying clothes, removing wrinkles and the like. Background Art

[0002] Generally, clothes processing apparatus is a concept including a washing machine that removes foreign matters through the chemical action of detergent and physical actions such as rotation of a drum after wetting clothes with water to bring them into a wet cloth state, and a dryer that dries the wet cloth clothes using hot air and steam.

[0003] In recent years, clothes processing apparatuses for clothes management have appeared, which deodorize clothes, remove moisture from clothes, and remove wrinkles without wetting dry clothes with water. Such a clothes processing apparatus can perform a refresh process in which moisture, steam or hot air is supplied while clothes are hung, the smell of clothes is deodorized, and clothes are dried or sterilized.

[0004] In order to dry laundry in a clothes processing apparatus, a heat pump or a heater can be used. A clothes processing apparatus using a heat pump dehumidifies moist air by using an evaporator and a condenser, then reheats the dehumidified moist air and supplies dry high-temperature air to clothes. Since the heat pump can generate high-temperature heat with a smaller amount of energy than a heater, it is excellent in terms of energy efficiency.

[0005] A heat pump can dehumidify or heat air by circulating a refrigerant. Refrigerants are classified into natural refrigerants, first-generation CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), second-generation HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons), third-generation HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons), and fourth-generation HFOs (hydrofluoroolefins). Among these, CFCs and HCFC refrigerants, which are classified as fluorocarbon gases, are known as major ozone-depleting substances and are regulated by the Montreal Protocol.

[0006] HFCs do not have side effects such as ozone depletion, but they are classified as greenhouse gases. A typical example of a refrigerant is R-134a. Following the Montreal Protocol, which designated HFC refrigerants as greenhouse gases, their use is gradually being restricted. As a result, HFO refrigerants, which have a low global warming potential (GWP), are emerging as the next generation of refrigerants.

[0007] GWP (Global Warming Potential) is a measure of the degree to which other greenhouse gases contribute to global warming, using the impact of carbon dioxide on global warming as a baseline. Specifically, it represents the value obtained by dividing the amount of solar energy absorbed by 1 kg of individual greenhouse gas by the amount of solar energy absorbed by 1 kg of carbon dioxide. It is an index of the warming effect per unit mass. For example, if the GWP of carbon dioxide is 1, then the GWP of methane is 21, the GWP of nitrous oxide is 310, the GWP of hydrofluorocarbons is 1300, and the GWP of sulfur hexafluoride is 23900.

[0008] To prevent the acceleration of global warming, the use of substances with high global warming capacity (GWP) is being restricted worldwide. Accordingly, heat pumps using R-290, a refrigerant with a low GWP, and clothing processing devices utilizing these pumps are being developed. However, R-290 is a high-purity propane gas and is flammable and combustible. In particular, if R-290 leaks and its concentration in the air exceeds 1.8%, there is a risk of ignition or explosion during use.

[0009] Therefore, devices and control methods capable of detecting refrigerant leaks during operation and preventing refrigerant ignition are attracting attention. A prior art document related to refrigerant ignition prevention is Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0001769 (Prior Art Document 1). This prior art document discloses a clothing processing device including a heat pump that uses a flammable refrigerant. It also discloses a control method for the clothing processing device that operates a fan according to a preset time, regardless of whether a leak is detected, in order to prevent refrigerant ignition.

[0010] Prior art 1 presents a method of using a fan to prevent a flammable refrigerant from concentrating in one place and becoming highly concentrated in the event of a leak. By operating a fan to create airflow inside, the concentration of the flammable refrigerant can be prevented from rising. This is disclosed to reduce the possibility of ignition. Prior art 1 discloses using a fan configured to blow air towards the compressor or to draw in and blow air around the compressor to lower the compressor temperature, and also discloses that it can be used to dilute a flammable refrigerant (e.g., R-290) in the event of a leak.

[0011] However, flammable refrigerants like R-290 have high density. That is, leaked flammable refrigerant will accumulate at the bottom due to its inherent density. However, since the fan in prior art 1 is positioned in the height direction of the compressor, the airflow generated decreases the further away you are from the fan's axis of rotation. Naturally, the airflow generated below the fan may be insufficient to dilute the refrigerant.

[0012] To more effectively disperse a highly densitic flammable refrigerant like R-290, it is desirable to create an airflow concentrated at the bottom of the space. In other words, if the fan is positioned as disclosed in prior art 1, there are fundamental limitations to dispersing the refrigerant that is concentrated at the bottom.

[0013] The primary function of the fan disclosed in Prior Art 1 is to cool the compressor. Furthermore, an additional use of the fan is disclosed: generating airflow to disperse the refrigerant. In other words, it can be said that the typical operating environment for the fan is to create airflow that can reach the entire compressor. Concentrating the airflow at the lower end of the compressor is not the typical operating environment intended by Prior Art 1. Therefore, in a garment processing apparatus as understood from Prior Art 1, it is difficult to change the fan's position to concentrate on dispersing the refrigerant accumulated at the bottom rather than cooling the compressor.

[0014] Therefore, according to the disclosure in prior art 1, there was a motivation to generate airflow in a clothing processing device to reduce the density of the refrigerant, but it did not reach a level where the airflow could be concentrated at the bottom of the space to disperse or dilute the refrigerant accumulated there. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0015] One of the problems that this invention aims to solve is to provide a structure for preventing explosions caused by leakage of flammable refrigerant in a clothing processing device that uses a heat pump employing a flammable refrigerant.

[0016] One of the problems that this invention aims to solve is to provide a structure for effectively ventilating a flammable refrigerant that has accumulated in the lower part of the internal space of a device, such as the bottom of a cabinet or the bottom of a machine room.

[0017] One of the problems that this invention aims to solve is to provide a device for ventilating flammable refrigerants with a configuration that allows for efficient use of limited space.

[0018] One of the problems that this invention aims to solve is to provide concentrated ventilation to areas where there is a high probability that a flammable refrigerant will explode due to the generation of sparks.

[0019] One of the problems that this invention aims to solve is to provide a low-cost and highly efficient structure that can reduce the risk of explosion in response to leakage of flammable refrigerants.

[0020] One of the problems that this invention aims to solve is to provide a garment processing apparatus to which an IPM temperature reduction structure is applied that can solve the problem of the compressor stopping due to the rise in IPM temperature caused by increased power consumption of the compressor when R-290 is applied.

[0021] One of the problems that this invention intends to solve is to provide a structure that can solve the problem that when a fan is added for IPM cooling, the control configuration increases and the IPM gets even hotter.

[0022] One of the problems that the present invention intends to solve is to provide a structure that can provide a fan for cooling the IPM without raising its temperature, and a fan capable of dispersing the refrigerant or discharging it to the outside of the device.

[0023] One of the problems that this invention aims to solve is to provide a structure that can efficiently utilize the limited space in a machine room while also having a fan that can discharge leaked refrigerant.

[0024] One of the problems that this invention aims to solve is to provide a structure that can reduce the size of the heatsink placed on the control board. Reducing the size of the heatsink can improve space efficiency.

[0025] One of the problems to be solved intended by the present invention is to prevent the possibility of refrigerant explosion in advance by proactively operating a ventilation unit before other electrical components operate.

[0026] One of the problems to be solved intended by the present invention is to effectively ventilate leaked refrigerant by executing a safety course in which a ventilation unit operates in advance before the present course is executed. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0027] A laundry treatment apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cabinet; a treatment chamber positioned inside the cabinet and configured to accommodate laundry; a door configured to open and close the treatment chamber; a heat exchange device positioned inside the cabinet, arranged at a lower portion of the treatment chamber, and configured to perform heat exchange with air in the treatment chamber using a flammable refrigerant; a control board positioned inside the cabinet, arranged at a lower portion of the treatment chamber and configured to control the heat exchange device; and a fan configured to cool elements of the control board, arranged at a position adjacent to the inner bottom of the cabinet, and configured to disperse airflow at the inner bottom of the cabinet.

[0028] In an embodiment, an exhaust outlet of the fan communicates with the outside of the cabinet, and can discharge sucked air to the outside of the cabinet.

[0029] In an embodiment, the control board is arranged such that a mounting surface on which the elements are mounted faces downward, and the fan can be arranged below the control board.

[0030] In an embodiment, the laundry treatment apparatus comprises a circulation duct positioned inside the cabinet, arranged at a lower portion of the treatment chamber and forming a circulation flow path that discharges air flowing in from the treatment chamber back into the treatment chamber, and the control board can be arranged below the circulation duct.

[0031] In an embodiment, an exhaust outlet of the fan communicates with the circulation duct, and air discharged from the fan can be guided into the circulation duct.

[0032] In this embodiment, the control board is provided with a heatsink for cooling an intelligent power module (IPM), and the fan can be positioned on the heatsink.

[0033] In the embodiment, the fan may be provided as a centrifugal blower or a double inlet blower.

[0034] In the embodiment, the exhaust airflow rate of the fan is 0.1 m³. 3 / min or more 0.16m 3 It can be less than or equal to / min.

[0035] In the embodiment, the heat sink has a plurality of pins arranged along a first direction, wherein the distance between the first and last pins along the arrangement direction is less than a first length, and the plurality of pins extend a second length along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the first length may be less than the diameter of the fan's intake, and the second length may be greater than the diameter of the fan's intake.

[0036] In the embodiment, the control board can be positioned such that the heat sink is located on the side furthest from the compressor in the front-to-back direction relative to the heat treatment apparatus.

[0037] In the embodiment, a steam generator that generates steam from supplied water may be further included, and the steam generator may be positioned above the circulation duct.

[0038] In the embodiment, an outside air duct is further included that connects the outside of the cabinet to the circulation duct, the exhaust port of the fan is in communication with the outside air duct, and the air discharged from the fan can be guided to the outside air duct.

[0039] In this embodiment, the circulation duct includes a chamber-side inlet that communicates with the processing chamber and is openable and closable, and an outside-air side inlet that communicates with the outside-air duct and is openable and closable. When the outside-air side inlet is closed, the air discharged from the fan is guided to the outside of the cabinet. When the chamber-side inlet is closed and the outside-air side inlet is open, the air discharged from the fan is guided into the circulation duct.

[0040] In the embodiment, a circulating fan is further included that forms air pressure such that the airflow inside the circulating duct moves from upstream to downstream, and when the chamber-side inlet is closed and the outside air-side inlet is open, the air discharged from the fan can be guided into the circulating duct by the air pressure.

[0041] In the embodiment, the door is provided with a first flow path that connects the outside air duct to the outside of the garment processing device when the door is in a position that closes the processing chamber, and a second flow path that connects the processing chamber to the outside of the garment processing device when the door is in a position that closes the processing chamber. When the chamber-side inlet is closed and the outside air-side inlet is open, the air discharged from the fan is guided by the air pressure to the circulation duct, flows into the processing chamber, and then can be discharged to the outside of the cabinet through the second flow path.

[0042] An embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet, a processing chamber located inside the cabinet for storing clothing, a door for opening and closing the processing chamber, a machine room located inside the cabinet but below the processing chamber, a base module located in the machine room and including a heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the air in the processing chamber, a control board located in a control board mounting section at the bottom of the machine room for controlling the configuration of the garment processing device, and a fan positioned to overlap the control board vertically and to discharge the inhaled air away from the control board.

[0043] In this embodiment, the fan communicates with the outside of the garment processing device and can discharge the inhaled air to the outside of the garment processing device.

[0044] In the embodiment, the control board can be positioned with the mounting surface on which the components are mounted facing downwards.

[0045] In this embodiment, the fan can be positioned below the control board.

[0046] In this embodiment, a heatsink is placed on the control board, and the fan can be positioned so as to overlap the heatsink vertically.

[0047] In the embodiment, the heat sink may be used to cool the intelligent power module (IPM) of the control board.

[0048] In this embodiment, the control board can be positioned such that the heat sink is located on the side furthest from the compressor in the front-rear direction.

[0049] In the embodiment, the heat sink has a plurality of pins arranged along the first direction with respect to a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the distance between the first and last pins along the arrangement direction is less than a first length, and the plurality of pins extend along the second direction to a second length, the first length may be less than the diameter of the fan's intake, and the second length may be greater than the diameter of the fan's intake.

[0050] In the embodiment, the fan may be provided as a centrifugal blower.

[0051] In the embodiment, the centrifugal blower can be provided as a double inlet blower.

[0052] In the embodiment, the exhaust air volume of the centrifugal blower is 0.1 m³. 3 It can be greater than or equal to / min.

[0053] In the embodiment, the exhaust air volume of the centrifugal blower is 0.16 m³. 3 It can be less than or equal to / min.

[0054] In the embodiment, the base module includes a circulation duct that forms a circulation path through which air from the processing chamber flows in and is discharged back into the processing chamber, the heat exchanger includes an evaporator located in the circulation path, a condenser located in the circulation path, a compressor located outside the circulation path, and refrigerant piping that transmits refrigerant between the evaporator, the condenser, and the compressor, and the control board installation section may be located below the circulation duct in which the evaporator and the condenser are located.

[0055] In the embodiment, the system further includes a steam generator that generates steam from supplied water, the steam generator may be located above the evaporator and the condenser in the machine room.

[0056] In this embodiment, the exhaust port of the fan is in communication with the circulation duct, and the air discharged from the fan can be guided into the circulation duct.

[0057] In the embodiment, the system includes a first filter located at the chamber-side inlet, a second filter that separates the chamber-side inlet into a first inlet and a second inlet, thereby dividing the flow path of the circulation duct into a first circulation flow path and a second circulation flow path, a first circulation flow path valve that opens and closes the first inlet, and a second circulation flow path valve that opens and closes the second inlet, wherein the first circulation flow path is a flow path through which air that has passed the first inlet is directly transmitted to the evaporator and the condenser, and the second circulation flow path is a flow path through which air that has passed the second inlet passes through the second filter and is transmitted to the evaporator and the condenser.

[0058] In the embodiment, the circulation duct communicates with the processing chamber and includes a chamber-side inlet located upstream of the evaporator and condenser, an outside air-side inlet located upstream of the evaporator and condenser, and an outlet located downstream of the evaporator and condenser. The base module includes an outside air duct connecting the outside air-side inlet to the outside of the garment processing device, a first valve for opening and closing the chamber-side inlet, a second valve for opening and closing the outside air-side inlet, and a circulation fan that creates air pressure such that the airflow inside the circulation duct is directed from either the chamber-side inlet or the outside air-side inlet towards the outlet. The outlet of the fan communicates with the outside air duct, and the air discharged from the fan can be guided into the outside air duct.

[0059] In the embodiment, the door may be provided with a first flow path that connects the outside air duct to the outside of the garment processing device when the door closes the processing chamber, and a second flow path that connects the processing chamber to the outside of the garment processing device when the door closes the processing chamber.

[0060] In the embodiment, the first flow path can be a path connecting a bottom opening provided on the bottom surface of the door and a bottom opening provided at the lower rear surface of the door in a position that communicates with the outside air duct.

[0061] In the embodiment, the second flow path can be a path connecting an upper opening provided on the upper surface of the door and an upper opening provided on the rear surface of the door at a position opposite to the opening of the processing chamber.

[0062] In the embodiment, the system includes a first filter located at the chamber-side inlet, a second filter that separates the chamber-side inlet into a first inlet and a second inlet, thereby dividing the flow path of the circulation duct into a first circulation flow path and a second circulation flow path, a first circulation flow path valve that opens and closes the first inlet, and a second circulation flow path valve that opens and closes the second inlet, wherein the first circulation flow path is a flow path through which air that has passed the first inlet is directly transmitted to the evaporator and the condenser, and the second circulation flow path is a flow path through which air that has passed the second inlet passes through the second filter and is transmitted to the evaporator and the condenser. [Effects of the Invention]

[0063] According to various embodiments of the present invention, in a clothing processing apparatus to which a heat pump using a flammable refrigerant is applied, explosions due to leakage of the flammable refrigerant can be effectively prevented.

[0064] According to various embodiments of the present invention, when a high-density flammable refrigerant accumulates in the lower part of a space, the refrigerant accumulated in the lower part can be ventilated more effectively.

[0065] According to various embodiments of the present invention, a limited space can be used efficiently, making it possible to have a fan for ventilating a flammable refrigerant without requiring additional space.

[0066] According to various embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to concentrate ventilation in areas where there is a high probability of a flammable refrigerant exploding due to the generation of sparks.

[0067] According to various embodiments of the present invention, a low-cost and highly efficient structure can be provided that can reduce the risk of explosion in response to refrigerant leakage.

[0068] According to various embodiments of the present invention, when R-290 is applied, the problem of the compressor stopping due to the temperature rise of the IPM can be solved despite the problem of increased compressor power consumption.

[0069] According to various embodiments of the present invention, overheating of the IPM can be prevented because the control configuration does not increase, even while providing a fan for cooling the IPM and a fan for discharging leaked refrigerant.

[0070] According to various embodiments of the present invention, space can be efficiently utilized while still having a fan capable of discharging leaked refrigerant.

[0071] According to various embodiments of the present invention, since the fan is directly attached to the control box where the ignition points are concentrated, it is safer and also has the effect of shortening the course time.

[0072] According to various embodiments of the present invention, a structure can be provided that allows for a reduction in the size of the heatsink placed on the control board. Reducing the size of the heatsink improves space efficiency.

[0073] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the possibility of a refrigerant explosion can be prevented by activating the ventilation unit before other electrical components are operated.

[0074] According to various embodiments of the present invention, a safety course is implemented in which the ventilation unit is activated before the main course is executed, thereby effectively ventilating the leaked refrigerant. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0075] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the external appearance of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing the door 20 of a garment processing apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention in an open state. [Figure 3] This figure shows various configurations located in the machine room. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing a base module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a diagram illustrating the heat exchanger 700 installed in the base module 1000. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating the heat exchanger 700 installed in the base module 1000. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating the control board installation section 360. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the control board installation section 360 with the blower 400 removed, for a more detailed explanation. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the control box 600 installed in the control board mounting section 360. [Figure 10] This is a rear view of the base section 300 to illustrate the state in which the control box 600 is installed on the control board mounting section 360. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the control board mounting section 360, with the base section 300 cut away. [Figure 12] This diagram illustrates the coupling relationship between the fan 800, the control box 600, and the outside air duct 340. [Figure 13] This diagram illustrates the coupling relationship between the fan 800, the control box 600, and the outside air duct 340. [Figure 14] This diagram illustrates the placement of fan 800 in control box 600. [Figure 15] This diagram illustrates the relationship between the heatsink 620 and the fan 800 in the embodiment. [Figure 16] This is a diagram illustrating the airflow discharge structure using Fan 800. [Figure 17] This diagram illustrates the refrigerant discharge path in a process that uses steam. [Figure 18] This diagram illustrates the refrigerant discharge route during the drying process. [Figure 19] This diagram illustrates the refrigerant discharge path in the indoor dehumidification course. [Figure 20] This diagram illustrates the refrigerant discharge route when not in use. [Figure 21]This is an experimental graph used to confirm the refrigerant discharge effect, and it shows the refrigerant concentration measured near the control board 610. [Figure 22] This is an experimental graph to confirm the refrigerant discharge effect, and it shows the refrigerant concentration measured in the central part of the processing chamber 35 and the second opening 32 when the clothing processing device 1 is operating in the indoor dehumidification course. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0076] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. The configurations and control methods of the apparatus described below are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the rights of the present disclosure, and reference numerals used identically throughout the specification indicate the same components.

[0077] Certain terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the examples provided.

[0078] For example, expressions such as "identical" and "being identical" include not only cases where the state is strictly identical, but also cases where there are differences that allow for tolerances or equivalent functionality.

[0079] Furthermore, in this specification, when a component is described as being "linked" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly linked or connected to the other component, or that other components may exist in between. Conversely, when a component is described as being "directly linked" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0080] Furthermore, in this specification, terms such as “includes” or “having” merely indicate the presence of features, figures, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood not to preemptively exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0081] For example, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangements such as "in any direction," "along any direction," "parallel," "perpendicular," "center," "concentric," and "coaxial" include not only cases where the arrangement is strictly defined, but also states where there is relative displacement with an angle or distance sufficient to achieve tolerance or equivalent function.

[0082] To illustrate this disclosure, the following description is based on a spatial orthogonal coordinate system with mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes. Each axis direction (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction) refers to both directions in which the axis extends. When a "+" sign is placed before each axis direction (+X-axis direction, +Y-axis direction, +Z-axis direction), it refers to one of the positive directions in which the axis extends. When a "-" sign is placed before each axis direction (-X-axis direction, -Y-axis direction, -Z-axis direction), it refers to the other negative direction in which the axis extends.

[0083] The directional expressions such as forward (+Y), backward (-Y), left (+X), right (-X), up (+Z), and down (-Z) described below are defined according to the XYZ coordinate axes. However, this is merely an explanation to make this disclosure clearly understandable, and it is possible to define each direction differently depending on where the reference point is set.

[0084] The use of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" preceding the components described below is intended to avoid confusion regarding the components being referred to, and is unrelated to the order, importance, or hierarchical relationship between the components. For example, an invention that includes only the second component and lacks the first component is also feasible.

[0085] As used herein, singular expressions include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates a different meaning.

[0086] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "and / or" includes a combination of any of the listed items or any one of the listed items. In addition, in this specification, "A or B" may include "A", "B", or "both A and B".

[0087] <Example of the appearance of the garment processing device 1>

[0088] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of a garment processing apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The external appearance of the garment processing apparatus 1 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1.

[0089] The cabinet 10 forms the exterior of the garment processing device 1. The cabinet 10 may be provided with a height that is longer than its width (width in the left-right direction) or depth (width in the front-back direction).

[0090] The door 20 is located at the front of the garment processing device 1. The door 20 is coupled to the front of the cabinet 10. In this embodiment, the door 20 is hinged to the cabinet 10. A handle 21 and an operating unit 22 may be provided on the front surface 21a of the door 20. A display for displaying information about the garment processing device 1 may be installed on the operating unit 22.

[0091] In this embodiment, the bottom surface 20c of the door 20 is installed at a predetermined height H1 away from the bottom. By separating the bottom surface 20c of the door 20 from the bottom (installation surface), outside air can flow into the interior of the clothing processing device 1 through the door bottom opening formed in the bottom surface 20c of the door 20, which will be described later.

[0092] An upper opening 26b is formed on the upper surface 20d of the door 20 according to the embodiment.

[0093] <Door 20 is open, and the processing chamber 35 is open.>

[0094] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the door 20 of a garment processing apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention in an open state. Referring to Figure 2, the interior exposed to the user when the door 20 is open will be described.

[0095] The inner case 30 forms a processing chamber 35, which is a space for storing and processing clothing. The inner case 30 is located inside the cabinet 10. The front of the inner case 30 is open to allow clothing to be inserted. The inner case 30 can be configured so that its height is greater than its width and depth. This allows clothing to be hung inside the processing chamber 35 without being folded or wrinkled. The inner case 30 can be made of a plastic resin system, and can be made of a reinforced plastic resin system that does not deform even when exposed to air at a temperature higher than ambient air, heated air (hereinafter referred to as hot air), steam, or moisture.

[0096] A garment hanging section (not shown) can be provided on the upper part of the inner surface of the inner case 30, on which garments can be hung in the processing chamber 35. The garment hanging section is provided in the shape of a hanger and can be fixed to the upper surface of the inner case 30. The garment hanging section allows garments to be hung in an unfolded state within the processing chamber 35. The garment hanging section can be provided as a hanger that moves back and forth in the width direction or rotates back and forth within the inner case 30. In one embodiment of the garment processing apparatus 1, the garment hanging section can be used to agitate the garments inside the inner case 30. When garments are agitated, foreign matter and dust can be brushed off, and wrinkles that have formed on the garments can also be removed.

[0097] The height of the processing chamber 35 is less than the total height of the cabinet 10. A machine room is provided below the processing chamber 35. The processing chamber 35 and the machine room can be separated by an inner case 30 which forms the bottom 30a of the processing chamber 35.

[0098] Various devices are installed in the machine room. These devices may include a variety of equipment, such as a device that supplies heated air (hereinafter referred to as hot air) to the processing chamber 35, a device that supplies steam to the processing chamber 35, and a device that purifies or dehumidifies the outside air of the cabinet 10. The various devices installed in the machine room will be described in detail later.

[0099] Multiple openings are formed in the wall surface of the inner case 30 that defines the processing chamber 35, allowing communication with the machine room. In this embodiment, the multiple openings can be formed in the bottom 30a. In this embodiment, air from the processing chamber 35 can move to the machine room through the various openings, and one or more hot air or steam generated in the machine room can move into the processing chamber 35.

[0100] In this embodiment, the inner case 30 can have a first opening 31, a second opening 32, and a third opening 33.

[0101] The first opening 31 is a passage through which air inside the inner case 30 flows to the machine room. 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 can be positioned towards the front of the lower surface of the inner case 30.

[0102] The second opening 32 is a passage through which air supplied from the machine room goes to the inner case 30. The second opening 32 communicates with the air outlet 401, which will be described later. The second opening 32 can be positioned towards the rear of the lower surface of the inner case 30. By forming the first opening 31 towards the front and the second opening 32 towards the rear, a separation distance is ensured between the first opening 31 and the second opening 32, preventing the air supplied from the second opening 32 to the processing chamber 35 from being immediately discharged from the first opening 31.

[0103] The third opening 33 is a passage through which steam supplied from the machine room goes to the inner case 30. The third opening 33 communicates with a 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 laterally to the second opening 32. By ensuring a distance between the third opening 33 and the first opening 31, it is possible to prevent steam discharged from the third opening 33 from being discharged into the first opening 31.

[0104] A water supply and drainage tank 40 can be located at the bottom of the processing chamber 35. The water supply and drainage tank 40 can be located at the front of the machine room. The water supply and drainage tank 40 can be located in a position that is exposed to the user when the door 20 is opened.

[0105] The water supply and drainage tank 40 can consist of a water supply tank 41 and a drainage tank 42. The water supply tank 41 is a tank that stores water to supply moisture to the processing chamber 35. The drainage tank 42 is a tank that collects water condensed inside the garment processing device 1.

[0106] The water tank holder 50 is configured to support the water supply and drainage tanks 40. The water tank holder 50 is located in front of the machine room, preventing the machine room from being exposed to the outside. The water supply and drainage tanks 40 are detachable from the water tank holder 50. The water supply tank 41 and the drainage tank 42 are detachable from the water tank holder 50, respectively. The user can detach the water supply and drainage tanks 40 from the water tank holder 50, replenish the water supply tank 41, and discard the water collected in the drainage tank 42.

[0107] The lower opening 11a can be located at the bottom of the water tank holder 50. The lower opening 11a can be formed in the lower front panel 11. The lower front panel 11 can be located at the bottom of the water tank holder 50. The lower front panel 11 may be one of the panels forming the cabinet 10 that is located at the bottom of the water tank holder 50. The lower opening 11a communicates with the outside air inlet 345 of the outside air duct 340, which will be described later.

[0108] A gasket 28 can be installed around the periphery of the rear surface 20b of the door 20. When the door 20 is closed, the gasket 28 can be positioned to be in close contact with the periphery of the processing chamber 35, thereby sealing the processing chamber 35.

[0109] A condensate guide 29 can be formed protruding from the rear surface 20b of the door 20, which is inserted into the processing chamber 35 when the door 20 is closed. The condensate guide 29 can be provided with a width corresponding to the width of the opening of the processing chamber 35. The condensate guide 29 can be positioned close to the bottom 30a of the processing chamber 35. The condensate guide 29 can prevent moisture from flowing into the machine room by guiding moisture flowing along the wall surface of the door 20 to the bottom 30a of the processing chamber 35.

[0110] In the embodiment, a lower door opening 25a is formed at the lower part of the rear surface 20b of the door 20. The lower door opening 25a communicates with a bottom door opening 25b formed on the bottom surface of the door 20, forming a first air passage through which air passes inside the door. The lower door opening 25a communicates with the lower opening 11a when the door 20 is closed. The lower door opening 25a communicates with the lower opening 11a when the door 20 is closed.

[0111] In the embodiment, an upper door opening 26a is formed on the rear surface 20b of the door 20. The upper door opening 26a communicates with an upper door opening 26b formed on the upper surface 20d of the door 20, forming a second air passage through which air passes inside the door. 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 when the door 20 is closed. The upper door opening 26a can be located in a portion corresponding to the upper part of the processing chamber 35.

[0112] In this embodiment, the rear surface 20b of the door 20 may include a garment pressurizing device 60 capable of pressurizing garments, and a support portion 65 provided above the garment pressurizing device 60 and capable of supporting garments that are hung on it. The support portion 65 in this embodiment may be provided in the shape of a hook on which a hanger can be hung. The garment pressurizing device 60 in this embodiment can pressurize garments hung on the support portion 65 using a pressurizing plate 61 that pivots. Garments hung on the support portion 65 are pressed by the garment pressurizing device 60, which removes wrinkles or forms an intended crease.

[0113] <Examples of various configurations located in the machine room>

[0114] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating various configurations located in the machine room.

[0115] The machine room is located above the cabinet bottom plate 15. Refer to Figure 3 to describe the various mechanical devices located in the machine room.

[0116] A base module 1000 is installed in the machine room. The base module 1000 according to this embodiment can be provided as a module including a blower 400, a steam generator 500, a control box 600, and a heat exchanger 700 (see Figure 6).

[0117] The base module 1000 includes a base section 300. The base section 300 provides space for the installation of each device and can function as a support for various devices. The base section 300 can also function as a duct on its own.

[0118] A water supply and drainage tank 40 can be positioned in front of the base module 1000. The base module 1000 can be positioned behind the water supply and drainage tank 40. The base module 1000 can be covered by a water tank holder 50 on which the water supply and drainage tank 40 is installed, so as not to be exposed to the outside. Figure 3 shows a water tank support plate 51, which is a component of the water tank holder 50.

[0119] <Example of Base Module 1000>

[0120] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a base module 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The base module 1000 will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 4.

[0121] A circulation duct 320 is provided in the base portion 300. The circulation duct 320 can be formed by the base portion 300. The circulation duct 320 forms a circulation channel 320a (see Figure 5) through which air moves.

[0122] The base portion 300 may include a duct body 321, a duct cover 322, and a duct inlet 323 that constitute the circulation duct 320. In one embodiment, the duct inlet 323 is formed in the duct cover 322. The duct inlet 323 is formed to protrude upward from the duct cover 322. The duct body 321 forms an open space at the top. The open upper surface of the duct body 321 is covered by the duct cover 322.

[0123] A chamber-side inlet 324 is formed in the duct inlet 323. The chamber-side inlet 324 can be divided into a first inlet 324a and a second inlet 324b. The first inlet 324a and the second inlet 324b can be separated by a second filter installation section 325.

[0124] In this embodiment, a first valve 326 is installed at the chamber-side inlet 324. The first valve 326 is configured to open and close the chamber-side inlet 324. The first valve 326 may include a first circulation flow valve 326a and a second circulation flow valve 326b. The first circulation flow valve 326a opens and closes the first inlet 324a. The second circulation flow valve 326b opens and closes the second inlet 324b.

[0125] A first filter 910 (see Figure 17) is positioned 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 positioned at the first inlet 324a. The second inlet filter 912 is positioned at the second inlet 324b. The first inlet filter 911 and the second inlet filter 912 are removable from the device by the user and can be cleaned or replaced.

[0126] A control board mounting section 360 can be provided at the bottom of the duct body 321. A control box 600 is installed in the control board mounting section 360. The control board mounting section 360 and the control box 600 will be described in detail later.

[0127] A blower 400 is installed behind the duct body 321. The blower 400 generates air pressure that forms the airflow through the circulation channel 320a. The blower 400 forms the airflow so that the air in the circulation channel 320a is discharged to the air outlet 401.

[0128] The steam generator 501 generates steam using water supplied from the water tank 41. The steam generator 501 can be supported by the base 300. The steam generator 501 can be located on the upper surface of the duct cover 322. The steam nozzle 510 is configured to discharge the steam generated by the steam generator 501. Since AC current is supplied to the steam generator 501, there is a risk of explosion if it comes into contact with leaked refrigerant, as this can cause sparks. Because leaked refrigerant is dense and settles at the bottom, it may be preferable to position the steam generator 501 at the top. In this embodiment, the steam generator 501 is located above the heat exchanger 700.

[0129] One end of the outside air duct 340 is connected to the circulation duct 320, and the other end, the outside air inlet 345, is open to the outside. The outside air duct 340 is configured to communicate with the outside air and the circulation duct 320. The outside air inlet 345 is open to the outside air, facing the lower opening 11a of the lower front panel 11.

[0130] <Example of heat exchanger 700>

[0131] Figures 5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating the heat exchanger 700 provided in the base module 1000.

[0132] A heat exchanger 700 according to one embodiment includes an evaporator 710, a condenser 720, and a compressor 730. The heat exchanger 700 may further include an expansion valve 740 and refrigerant piping 750 connecting them.

[0133] The evaporator 710 and condenser 720 are located in the circulation passage 320a, which is inside the circulation duct 320. In this embodiment, the compressor 730 and expansion valve 740 are located outside the circulation duct 320.

[0134] The evaporator 710 cools and condenses the air. The compressor 730 receives refrigerant from the evaporator 710, compresses it, and heats it. The condenser 720 receives refrigerant from the compressor 730 and heats the air. The expansion valve 740 expands the refrigerant that has passed through the condenser 720, lowering the temperature of the refrigerant. A refrigerant with a low global warming potential, such as R-290, can be used. The refrigerant may be flammable.

[0135] Air from the processing chamber 35 flows into the circulation channel 320a through the chamber-side inlet 324. The air flows from the chamber-side inlet 324 along the circulation channel 320a and passes through the evaporator 710 and the condenser 720. The evaporator 710 cools and dehumidifies the air flowing through the circulation channel 320a. The condenser 720 heats the air that has passed through the evaporator 710 to form hot air. Downstream of the condenser 720 is the outlet 327a (see Figure 8) of the duct body 321. The outlet 327a can be defined by the discharge duct 327.

[0136] The blower 400 creates air pressure so that the airflow inside the circulation duct 320 is directed towards the outlet 327a. The dehumidified and heated air in the circulation passage 320a passes through the outlet 327a according to the airflow created by the blower 400 and is discharged from the blower outlet 401.

[0137] <Example of control board installation section 360>

[0138] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the control board mounting section 360. Figure 8 shows the control board mounting section 360 with the blower 400 removed, for a more detailed explanation.

[0139] The control box 600 is installed in the control board mounting section 360. The control box 600 can supply power to various components that make up the garment processing device 1, such as the heat exchanger 700, steam generator 500, blower 400, and fan 800. The control box 600 also controls various components that make up the garment processing device 1, such as the heat exchanger 700, steam generator 500, blower 400, and fan 800. The control box 600 is equipped to control all electronically controlled components, such as the heat exchanger 700, steam generator 500, and blower 400, and can execute various courses and options for processing clothes.

[0140] In the embodiment, the control board mounting section 360 is located at the bottom of the duct body 321. In the embodiment, the control board mounting section 360 can be provided between the base bottom 311 and the duct body 321. The control board mounting section 360 can be provided at the bottom of the portion of the circulation duct 320 in which the evaporator 710 and condenser 720 are located.

[0141] The control board mounting section 360 is located at the bottom of the machine room. The control board mounting section 360 can be provided in a duct shape with either the front or rear open. The control board mounting section 360 is provided with an installation space 360a into which the control box 600 can be inserted.

[0142] Figure 9 shows the control box 600 installed in the control board mounting section 360. Figure 10 is a rear view of the base section 300 to illustrate the state in which the control box 600 is installed in the control board mounting section 360. The state in which the control box 600 is installed in the control board mounting section 360 will be explained with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

[0143] The control board mounting section 360 is positioned at the bottom of the duct body 321 that constitutes the circulation duct 320. The bottom surface of the duct body 321 can form the top surface of the control board mounting section 360. The control board mounting section 360 can be formed integrally with the base bottom 311.

[0144] The control box 600 is inserted into the control board mounting section 360 and supported on the upper part of the control board mounting section 360. The control box 600 is positioned spaced apart from the base bottom 311. The control box 600 can be inserted into the control board mounting section 360 by sliding from the rear towards the front.

[0145] The control box 600 may further include a bracket 650 surrounding the control board 610. The bracket 650 forms the perimeter of the control box 600 and can prevent foreign matter from entering the control board 610. The bracket 650 can be made of metal. The bracket 650 allows the control box 600 to be supported and seated on the control board mounting section 360. The control box 600 can be supported on the control board mounting section 360 by the mutual engagement of a projection formed on the bracket 650 and a projection 3613 (see Figure 11) protruding from the control board mounting section 360.

[0146] The control box 600 can be installed at an angle to the base bottom 311. For example, the control box 600 may be installed such that the distance from the base bottom 311 is greater on the outside than on the inside. By installing the control box 600 at an angle, even if water flows out onto the top of the control box 600, the water can quickly detach from the control box 600.

[0147] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the control board mounting section 360, with the base section 300 cut away.

[0148] An external power supply can be provided to operate each component of the garment processing device 1. The external power supply can be AC ​​or high-voltage DC. In this case, there is a possibility of ignition due to arcing at the AC or high-voltage DC terminal. If a refrigerant such as R-290 is maintained above a certain concentration, there is a risk of ignition in the control box 600. Therefore, ventilation inside the control board installation section 360 is an important factor in ensuring the safety of garment processing devices that use flammable refrigerants. In conventional garment processing devices, the control box was located on the upper side of the cabinet. Therefore, even when using high-density R-290, the possibility of ignition of the flammable refrigerant on the control box side was not high. In the garment processing device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the control board installation section 360 and the control box 600 are located at the bottom of the garment processing device. Therefore, if the flammable refrigerant leaks, there is a high possibility of ignition in the control box 600.

[0149] The base section 300 may include a control board mounting section 360. A control box 600 is installed in the control board mounting section 360. A control board 610 is provided in the control box 600.

[0150] The control board mounting section 360 is located inside the cabinet 10 and can be positioned below the processing chamber 35. In this embodiment, the control board mounting section 360 can be positioned below the duct body 321. The bottom surface 3212 of the duct body 321, which forms the bottom surface of the circulation channel 320a, can form the top surface of the control board mounting section 360.

[0151] Of the partition walls 3611 and 3612 that form both sides of the control board mounting section 360 in the width direction, partition wall 3611, which forms one side, can form the outer wall of the base section 300. Support protrusions 3613 for supporting the control box 600 can be formed on the partition walls 3611 and 3612 in the width direction of the control board mounting section 360.

[0152] In this embodiment, a ventilation hole 395 can be formed in the lower part of the base portion 300. The ventilation hole 395 can ventilate the air below the base portion 300. The ventilation hole 395 can be formed in the partition walls 3611 and 3612, and can be appropriately formed where ventilation of the refrigerant is required.

[0153] A through-channel 397 can be formed in the base portion 300. The through-channel 397 can be located on the bottom surface of the base portion 300. Together with the ventilation holes 395, the through-channel 397 can form a ventilation channel 390. The through-channel 397 can be located below the circulation channel 320a. The bottom surface of the circulation channel 320a can form the upper surface of the through-channel 397.

[0154] The control unit through-hole 391 can be formed in the partition wall 3612 on either side of the control board mounting section 360, facing the passage channel 397.

[0155] In the base section 300, a piping arrangement section 314 can be provided on one side adjacent to the compressor installation section 312, where the refrigerant piping 750 and expansion valve 740 of the heat exchanger 700 are arranged. The circulation passage 320a can be arranged biased to one side in the width direction of the base section 300. The piping arrangement section 314 can be arranged on the other side in the width direction of the base section 300. That is, the piping arrangement section 314 can be arranged on one side of the circulation passage 320a.

[0156] The ventilation opening 395 may include a pipe-side through-hole 392 formed in the partition wall that forms the through-flow channel 397. The pipe-side through-hole 392 can form a fluid path that flows between the top and bottom surfaces of the base section 300. Refrigerant or air accumulated on the top surface of the base section 300 can move to the bottom surface of the base section 300 through the pipe-side through-hole 392. According to the embodiment, the pipe-side through-hole 392 can be used to ventilate flammable refrigerant accumulated in the pipe arrangement section 314 through the bottom surface of the base section 300. The refrigerant moves downward due to its high density. The pipe-side through-hole 392 functions as a path that can effectively discharge the refrigerant that has moved from top to bottom.

[0157] The duct body 321 may include a water collection section 328 in which water condensed in the heat exchanger 700 and evaporator 710 is stored. The water collection section 328 can be formed by creating a step-like section below a portion of the bottom surface 3212 of the circulation duct 320. The water collection bottom surface 3281, which is the bottom surface of the water collection section 328, can form the upper surface of the through channel 397. The through channel 397 can be formed below the water collection bottom surface 3281. The upper part of the water collection bottom surface 3281 can form the circulation duct 320, and the lower part can form the bottom surface of the base section 300.

[0158] <Fan 800 for refrigerant discharge and cooling of control box 600>

[0159] Figures 12 and 13 illustrate the coupling relationship between the fan 800, the control box 600, and the outside air duct 340. The location where the fan 800 is installed will be described with reference to Figures 12 and 13.

[0160] A control board 610 is provided in the control box 600. The control board 610 can be surrounded by a bracket 650. A fan 800 can be located inside the control box 600. The fan 800 can be positioned so as to overlap the control board 610 vertically. The fan 800 cools the elements of the control board 610. The fan 800 is positioned adjacent to the bottom inside the cabinet 10. The fan 800 is positioned below the control board 610. The fan 800 expels the air it draws in away from the control board 610. The fan 800 disperses the airflow at the bottom of the machine room. That is, if flammable refrigerant leaks, the fan 800 disperses the flammable refrigerant that is concentrated at the bottom due to its high density. The fan 800 functions to reduce the concentration of flammable refrigerant concentrated at the bottom. When the fan 800 reduces the concentration of flammable refrigerant below the lower explosive limit, the possibility of explosion becomes extremely low.

[0161] Fan 800 is provided as a centrifugal blower. According to the embodiment, fan 800 is provided as a double inlet blower.

[0162] In the base portion 300, an outside air inlet 321a is formed in front of the duct body 321. The outside air inlet 321a is located upstream of the evaporator 710 and condenser 720 in the circulation flow path 320a. The outside air inlet 321a can be formed in a rectangular shape. The outside air inlet 321a can 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 second valve plate 351 between the open and closed positions. In this embodiment, the second valve 350 can open or close the outside air inlet 321a by rotating the second valve plate 351 around a pivot axis.

[0163] The outside air duct 340 is configured to connect the outside air inlet 321a with the outside of the garment processing device 1. One side of the outside air duct 340 is in contact with the circulation duct 320. One side of the outside air duct 340 is positioned to communicate with the outside air inlet 321a. An outside air inlet 345 is formed on the other side of the outside air duct 340, and the outside air inlet 345 is in contact with the side that is connected to the outside.

[0164] In this embodiment, the fan 800 communicates with the outside of the garment processing device 1 and discharges the inhaled air to the outside of the garment processing device 1. In this embodiment, the fan 800 is connected to an outside air duct 340. In this embodiment, the outside air duct 340 includes an external communication section 341 and a fan communication section 347. The fan communication section 347 is a duct that extends toward the fan 800. The fan communication section 347 and the external communication section 341 communicate with each other. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 is connected to the fan communication section 347 and can communicate with the outside air passage 340a of the outside air duct 340.

[0165] In the base section 300, a front opening 360b for the installation section can be formed in front of the control board installation section 360. The fan communication section 347 extends toward the front opening 360b for the installation section. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 is located toward the front opening 360b for the installation section. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 and the fan communication section 347 are connected to each other by passing through the front opening 360b for the installation section. The air discharged through the exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 is guided to pass through the fan communication section 347. The air that has passed through the fan communication section 347 is guided to the outside air passage 340a of the outside air duct 340.

[0166] When the second valve 350 is in a position to open the outside air inlet 321a, the air discharged from the fan 800 can be guided to the circulation duct 320. Since the blower 400 forms an airflow in the direction from the outside air inlet 321a to the outlet 327a, when the second valve 350 is in a position to open the outside air inlet 321a, the airflow guided to the outside air passage 340a is guided to the circulation passage 320a. In one embodiment, the outlet 820 of the fan 800 communicates with the circulation duct 320 via the outside air duct 340. In another embodiment, the outlet 820 of the fan 800 may be directly connected to and communicate with the circulation duct 320.

[0167] In this embodiment, the fan 800 is positioned below the control board 610. According to this embodiment, the control board 610 is positioned with the mounting surface on which the components are mounted facing downwards. By positioning the mounting surface on which the components are mounted facing downwards, dust accumulation on the components is prevented, and overheating of the control box 600 can be prevented.

[0168] A heatsink 620 can be placed on the control board 610. The heatsink 620 cools the intelligent power module (IPM) located on the control board 610. In one embodiment, the fan 800 is positioned so as to overlap the heatsink 620 in the vertical direction.

[0169] <Example of Fan 800 placement in Control Box 600>

[0170] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the fan 800 in the control box 600. Figure 14 is a view of the control box 600 according to the embodiment, seen from the bottom.

[0171] A control board 610 is placed inside the control box 600. The control board 610 can be positioned so that the mounting surface on which the elements are mounted faces the bottom. Elements are individual components or devices that make up a circuit and have their own independent functions. A heatsink 620 is placed inside the control board 610. The heatsink 620 cools the components of the control board 610. In this embodiment, the heatsink 620 may be configured to cool the intelligent power module (IPM) of the control board. The heatsink 620 can be positioned so as to face the IPM.

[0172] The Fan 800 is positioned so that it overlaps the Heatsink 620 in the vertical direction.

[0173] The intake port 810 of the fan 800 is positioned to overlap the heat sink 620 in the vertical direction. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 can be positioned to face forward. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 is positioned to face in a direction that communicates with the outside air. In this embodiment, since a flow path is formed in front of the garment processing apparatus 1 that communicates with the outside of the garment processing apparatus 1, the exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 is positioned to face forward. The exhaust port 820 of the fan 800 can be connected to a guide pipe 850. The guide pipe 850 can guide the airflow direction of the exhaust port 820.

[0174] In the embodiment, the IPM and heat sink 620 are positioned away from the compressor 730. In the embodiment, the IPM and heat sink 620 are positioned in front of the control board 610 (+Y). Since the compressor 730 is located behind the base module 1000 (-Y direction), a gap is ensured between them, preventing overheating. Also, if refrigerant leaks from the compressor 730, positioning the IPM away from the compressor 730 reduces the concentration of refrigerant reaching the IPM, thereby reducing the risk of explosion. The fan 800 can form an airflow away from the position where the compressor 730 is located. According to the embodiment, since the compressor 730 is located behind the base module 1000 (-Y direction), the fan 800 can form an airflow toward the front of the base module 1000 (+Y direction).

[0175] <Relationship between heatsink 620 and fan 800 in the embodiment>

[0176] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the heatsink 620 and the fan 800 according to the embodiment.

[0177] The heatsink 620 includes a plurality of pins 621. The plurality of pins 621 are arranged along a first direction. Of the plurality of pins 621 arranged along the first direction, the distance between the first pin 621a and the last pin 621b is the first length L1. The plurality of pins 621 can extend along a second direction which is perpendicular to the first direction. The length to which the plurality of pins 621 extend is the second length L2.

[0178] In the embodiment, the first length L1 is smaller than the diameter D1 of the intake port 810 of the fan 800. According to the embodiment, the second length L2 is larger than the diameter D1 of the intake port 810 of the fan 800.

[0179] According to the arrangement of the fan 800 and heat sink 620 in this embodiment, a flow path can be formed between the multiple pins 621, and heat can be smoothly dissipated even at positions far from the intake port 810.

[0180] The fan 800 functions to create an airflow that expels leaked refrigerant, but under normal circumstances it functions as a fan to cool the IPM.

[0181] When the temperature of the IPM rises above 120 degrees Celsius, the compressor 730 stops. Conventionally, the compressor 730 would stop due to overheating of the IPM. By applying the structure according to the embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the IPM did not rise above 90 degrees Celsius, thus enabling the compressor 730 to run continuously. This improves the reliability of the device and shortens the course time.

[0182] <Airflow discharge structure>

[0183] Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the airflow discharge structure by the fan 800. Since the control board mounting section 360 is located below the base section 300, the refrigerant R, which has a higher density than the atmosphere, may accumulate on the bottom surface. The refrigerant R accumulated in the control board mounting section 360 is highly likely to cause ignition in the control board 610. The fan 800 effectively ventilates the air in the control board mounting section 360. This has the effect of ensuring the safety of the clothing processing device 1.

[0184] Furthermore, the fan 800 can constantly cool the control board 610. In other words, the fan 800 functions as a cooling fan for the control board 610. When using R290 refrigerant, the power consumption of the compressor 730 increases, which can lead to a problem where the temperature of the IPM continuously rises and the compressor 730 shuts down. According to the embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the IPM can be cooled, thus eliminating the problem of the compressor 730 shutting down.

[0185] In this embodiment, the fan 800 is provided as a double inlet blower. The fan 800 is positioned below the heatsink 620. The fan 800 expels heat from the heatsink 620 upwards and draws in and expels coolant downwards.

[0186] Fan 800 is connected to the outside air duct 340. Fan 800 can communicate with the outside air duct 340 and the fan communication section 347. The airflow discharged from fan 800 flows along the fan communication section 347 into the outside air passage 340a of the outside air duct 340. Depending on whether the second valve plate 351 is open or not, the airflow discharged from fan 800 and flowing into the outside air passage 340a is either discharged to the outside via the outside air inlet 345 or flows into the circulation passage 320a and moves to the processing chamber 35.

[0187] <Airflow according to the operating status of the device>

[0188] According to the embodiment, the garment processing apparatus 1 can switch flow paths depending on the processing course or process. The refrigerant discharge structure according to the operating state of the garment processing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to Figures 17 to 20.

[0189] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the refrigerant discharge path in a process using steam. For the sake of clarity, although not shown in the diagram, clothing is hanging in the processing chamber 35.

[0190] In processes using steam, a first circulation channel is selected that does not pass through the second filter 920. The second filter 920 may be a HEPA filter. It is undesirable for a HEPA filter to be exposed to steam. Therefore, in processes using steam, the circulating airflow can be drawn from the processing chamber 35 to the circulation channel 320a via the first inlet 324a so that it does not pass through the second filter 920. The airflow that flows into the circulation channel 320a is dehumidified and heated by passing through the evaporator 710 and condenser 720 and is supplied back to the processing chamber 35. In processes using steam, the second valve plate 351 is positioned in the closed position so as not to communicate with the outside air. The second valve plate 351 separates the circulation channel 320a from the outside air channel 340a. The outlet of the fan 800 is in communication with the outside air channel 340a. The airflow discharged from the fan 800 is guided to the outside air channel 340a. The airflow guided in the outside air passage 340a is discharged to the outside of the garment processing device 1 through a first passage 25 formed at the bottom of the door 20. The first passage 25 is a passage that connects the lower door opening 25a and the bottom door opening 25b. The airflow guided in the outside air passage 340a is transmitted to the first passage 25 via the lower door opening 25a and discharged to the outside of the garment processing device 1 through the bottom door opening 25b.

[0191] Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the refrigerant discharge path during the drying process. For the sake of clarity, although not shown in the diagram, clothing is hanging in the processing chamber 35.

[0192] In the drying process, a second circulation channel passing through a second filter 920 can be selected. For the airflow to pass through the second filter 920, it can be drawn from the processing chamber 35 into the circulation channel 320a via a second inlet 324b. The airflow entering the circulation channel 320a is filtered through the second filter 920, dehumidified and heated through the evaporator 710 and condenser 720, and then supplied back to the processing chamber 35. In the garment drying process, the second valve plate 351 is positioned in the closed position to prevent communication with the outside air. The second valve plate 351 separates the circulation channel 320a from the outside air channel 340a. The outlet of the fan 800 communicates with the outside air channel 340a. The airflow discharged from the fan 800 is guided into the outside air channel 340a. The airflow guided into the outside air channel 340a is discharged to the outside of the garment processing apparatus 1 via a first channel 25 formed at the bottom of the door 20. The airflow guided in the outside air passage 340a is transmitted to the first passage 25 via the lower door opening 25a and discharged to the outside of the garment processing device 1 via the bottom door opening 25b.

[0193] Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating the refrigerant discharge path in the indoor dehumidification course. The indoor dehumidification course is not a course for processing clothes contained in the processing chamber 35, but rather a course for dehumidifying the space in which the clothing processing device 1 is installed. In other words, it is a course in which outside air from the clothing processing device 1 is taken in by the heat exchanger, dehumidified, and then discharged back to the outside of the clothing processing device 1.

[0194] When the indoor dehumidification course is selected, the second valve plate 351 moves to the open position. The circulation passage 320a and the outside air passage 340a are connected. The first inlet 324a and the second inlet 324b are closed. When the blower 400 is activated, outside air flows into the outside air passage 340a through the first passage 25 formed at the bottom of the door 20. The outside air that flows into the outside air passage 340a moves to the circulation passage 320a. The outside air that flows into the circulation passage 320a is dehumidified and heated as it passes through the evaporator 710 and the condenser 720, and is guided to the processing chamber 35. The air guided to the processing chamber 35 is discharged to the outside of the garment processing device 1 through the second passage 26 formed at the top of the door 20. The second passage 26 is a passage that connects the upper door opening 26a and the top door opening 26b. The door-top opening 26a of the second flow path 26 is closed by the second flow path opening / closing valve 261 during the clothing processing process, but is opened when the indoor dehumidification course is selected.

[0195] The discharge port of fan 800 communicates with the outside air passage 340a. The airflow discharged from fan 800 is guided into the outside air passage 340a. The airflow guided into the outside air passage 340a moves along that airflow to the circulation passage 320a, and then moves to the processing chamber 35.

[0196] Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the refrigerant discharge path when not in a course.

[0197] When the garment processing device 1 is not operating or is not in a course, the second valve plate 351 separates the circulation passage 320a from the outside air passage 340a. The airflow discharged from the fan 800 is guided to the outside air passage 340a. The airflow guided to the outside air passage 340a is discharged to the outside of the garment processing device 1 through the first passage 25 formed at the bottom of the door 20.

[0198] <Refrigerant discharge effect and specifications of Fan 800>

[0199] Figure 21 is an experimental graph used to confirm the refrigerant discharge effect, and it shows the refrigerant concentration measured near the control board 610.

[0200] The refrigerant concentration around the ignition point needs to be diluted to below the lower explosive limit. In a scenario where a minute crack occurs in the refrigerant piping 750 and refrigerant leaks, when 84 g / h of refrigerant is leaked, the refrigerant concentration was maintained at around 5-10%, above the lower explosive limit of 2%. However, it was confirmed that when fan 800 was activated, the refrigerant concentration dropped to around 0% within 30 seconds.

[0201] In the embodiment, the fan 800 is provided in a configuration that reduces the refrigerant concentration to below the lower explosive limit within 30 seconds. In the embodiment, the fan 800 is provided as a double-suction centrifugal blower. The exhaust air volume of the fan 800 in the embodiment is 0.1 m³. 3 It is greater than or equal to / min.

[0202] In the embodiment, the fan 800 is provided with specifications that take noise into consideration and enhance user convenience. In the embodiment, the fan 800 is provided as a double-suction centrifugal blower. The exhaust air volume of the fan 800 in the embodiment is 0.16 m³. 3 It is less than / min.

[0203] Figure 22 is an experimental graph used to confirm the refrigerant discharge effect. It shows the refrigerant concentration measured in the central part of the processing chamber 35 and the second opening 32 when the clothing processing device 1 is operating in the indoor dehumidification course.

[0204] When the blower 400 was activated, the refrigerant was rapidly diluted, and refrigerant concentrations below the explosive range were observed in both the central portion of the processing chamber 35 and the second opening 32 portion.

[0205] While specific embodiments are illustrated herein, these specific embodiments are replaceable by any configuration calculated to achieve the same objective, and it will be obvious to a person of ordinary skill to the present invention that the disclosed invention will apply differently in other environments. That is, this application should be understood to cover any application or modification of the disclosure of the invention. The subsequent claims are not limited to the disclosure relating to the specific embodiments herein. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes elements of the claims of the invention, it should be considered to fall within the scope of the rights of the invention.

Claims

1. Cabinet and, A processing chamber located inside the cabinet for storing clothing, A door for opening and closing the processing chamber, A heat exchange device located inside the cabinet and positioned below the processing chamber, which uses a flammable refrigerant to exchange heat with the air in the processing chamber, A control board located inside the cabinet and positioned at the bottom of the processing chamber controls the heat exchanger, A fan is provided to cool the elements of the control board, and is positioned adjacent to the bottom of the cabinet, dispersing the airflow at the bottom of the cabinet. A garment processing device, including a garment processing device.

2. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the exhaust port of the fan communicates with the outside of the cabinet and discharges the inhaled air to the outside of the cabinet.

3. The control board is positioned with the mounting surface on which the elements are mounted facing downwards. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the fan is located below the control board.

4. It includes a circulation duct located inside the cabinet and positioned below the processing chamber, which forms a circulation channel for discharging air flowing in from the processing chamber back into the processing chamber, The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the control board is located below the circulation duct.

5. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the exhaust port of the fan communicates with the circulation duct, and the air discharged from the fan is guided into the circulation duct.

6. The control board is equipped with a heatsink for cooling the intelligent power module (IPM). The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the fan is arranged on the heat sink.

7. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the fan is provided as a centrifugal blower or a double inlet blower.

8. The exhaust airflow of the aforementioned fan is 0.1 m³. ３ / min or more 0.16m ３ The garment processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that it is less than or equal to / min.

9. The aforementioned heatsink is It has a plurality of pins arranged along a first direction, and the distance between the first and last pins along the arrangement direction is less than a first length. The plurality of pins extend along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction for a second length, The first length is smaller than the diameter of the fan's intake port. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the second length is greater than the diameter of the intake port of the fan.

10. The control board is The garment processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the heat sink is positioned on the side furthest from the compressor in the front-rear direction relative to the heat exchanger.

11. It further includes a steam generator that produces steam from supplied water, The steam generator is, The garment processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that it is positioned above the circulation duct.

12. The cabinet further includes an outside air duct that connects the outside of the cabinet to the circulation duct, The garment processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the exhaust port of the fan communicates with the outside air duct, and the air discharged from the fan is guided to the outside air duct.

13. The aforementioned circulation duct is A chamber-side inlet is provided that communicates with the processing chamber and can be opened and closed, It includes an outside air side inlet that communicates with the outside air duct and is provided to be openable and closable, When the aforementioned outside air inlet is closed, the air discharged from the fan is guided to the outside of the cabinet. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that when the chamber-side inlet is closed and the outside air-side inlet is open, the air discharged from the fan is guided to the circulation duct.

14. The system further includes a circulating fan that creates air pressure so that the airflow inside the circulating duct moves from upstream to downstream. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that when the chamber-side inlet is closed and the outside air-side inlet is open, the air discharged from the fan is guided into the circulation duct by the air pressure.

15. The aforementioned door has, In the position where the door closes the processing chamber, a first flow path connects the outside air duct to the outside of the garment processing device, and In the position where the door closes the processing chamber, a second flow path is provided that connects the processing chamber to the outside of the garment processing device. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that when the chamber-side inlet is closed and the outside air-side inlet is open, the air discharged from the fan is guided by the air pressure to the circulation duct, flows into the processing chamber, and is then discharged to the outside of the cabinet through the second flow path.

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