Clothing processing equipment

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus for treating laundry. An apparatus for treating laundry according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a washing machine, a dryer, and a control panel provided between a front panel of the washing machine and a front panel of the dryer, and includes one or more user interfaces (UIs) of any one of the washing machine and the dryer. The control panel includes a flat display for displaying any one of a washing machine operation UI and a dryer operation UI, and a switching button. When an input of the switching button is received in a state where the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat display, the flat display displays the dryer operation UI. When an input of the switching button is received in a state where the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat display, the flat display displays the washing machine operation UI.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothes processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] A clothes processing apparatus is an apparatus that loads laundry such as clothes and bedding into a drum, and performs necessary processing on the laundry such as removing contaminants attached to the laundry or drying the laundry.

[0003] When a clothes processing apparatus is configured to remove contaminants from laundry, the clothes processing apparatus can perform processes such as washing, rinsing, dewatering and drying. The clothes processing apparatus comprises a cabinet forming an outer appearance, a tub accommodated inside the cabinet, a drum rotatably mounted inside the tub into which laundry is loaded, and a detergent supply device that supplies detergent into the drum. When the drum is rotated by a motor in a state where washing water is supplied to the laundry accommodated in the drum, the laundry rubs against the drum and the washing water, thereby removing dirt attached to the laundry.

[0004] When a clothes processing apparatus is configured to dry laundry, the clothes processing apparatus can supply dry air to the laundry and remove moisture from the laundry. The clothes processing apparatus comprises a cabinet, a drum rotatably provided inside the cabinet, and a heating means for heating or drying air supplied to the laundry. When dry air is supplied to the laundry accommodated in the drum, moisture present in the laundry is evaporated and removed by the dry air, whereby moisture is removed from the laundry.

[0005] Korean Laid-Open Patent Publication KR10-2008-0021921 A1 discloses a clothes processing apparatus provided with a plurality of processing devices. The clothes processing apparatus is provided with a washing machine on an upper side and a dryer on a lower side. Further, a structure in which each of the washing machine and the dryer has an operation unit and a display unit is disclosed.

[0006] However, the garment processing apparatus disclosed in the aforementioned published document discloses a structure in which each of several distinct processing units has an operating unit and a display unit. In this case, the user needs to check the status of each of the processing units and operate each of the processing units individually, and it is also disadvantageous to operate the processing units in coordination with each other.

[0007] Therefore, in garment processing equipment equipped with multiple processing units, it is important to improve user convenience when checking or operating the operating status of the multiple processing units, and to present an efficient arrangement relationship between the configurations of the multiple processing units, as well as a stable and effective coupling relationship. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] In a garment processing apparatus, a control panel is provided that can control any of the multiple processing units constituting the apparatus. This panel includes a first button for activating the user interface for controlling the washing machine and a first light-emitting element (e.g., an LED) for indicating the activation state of the first button, a second button for activating the user interface for controlling the dryer, and a second light-emitting element for indicating the activation state of the second button. However, providing two buttons to indicate the activation state of the processing units requires a physically large display space and two light-emitting elements, resulting in high manufacturing costs. One objective of the present invention is to provide a garment processing apparatus that can offer a simple and clear design by reducing the physical display space required to indicate the activation state of the processing units, and can reduce manufacturing costs by reducing the number of light-emitting elements.

[0009] One objective of the present invention is to provide a garment processing apparatus that embodies a simple user interface and can provide an interior design effect when placed in an installation environment, by providing a user interface for a control panel that can control any of the multiple processing devices constituting the garment processing apparatus.

[0010] One objective of the present invention is to provide a highly intuitive garment processing apparatus that offers a user interface to a control panel capable of controlling any of the multiple processing devices constituting the garment processing apparatus, by displaying an activated user interface on a touch display, and allowing the user to visually recognize which processing device the activated user interface relates to.

[0011] One objective of the present invention is to provide a user interface for a control panel that can control any of the multiple processing devices constituting a garment processing device, and to provide a configuration that can reduce misrecognition of touch input due to moisture.

[0012] The problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The present invention provides a garment processing apparatus. In one embodiment, the garment processing apparatus includes a washing machine having a washing machine front panel on its front side and a first drum inside which clothes are stored; a dryer positioned above the washing machine and having a dryer front panel on its front side and a second drum inside which clothes are stored; and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel, which provides one or more user interfaces (UIs) for either the washing machine or the dryer. The control panel includes a flat display that displays either a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine or a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer, and a toggle button. When the input from the toggle button is received while the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat display, the flat display displays the dryer operation UI. When the input from the toggle button is received while the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat display, the flat display displays the washing machine operation UI.

[0014] In one embodiment, the toggle button is activated when both the washing machine and the dryer are powered on.

[0015] In one embodiment, the toggle button is deactivated when the power to one or more of the washing machine and the dryer is turned OFF.

[0016] In one embodiment, the toggle button is activated when either the washing machine or the dryer is in operation and the power to the other is turned on.

[0017] A garment processing apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention includes a washing machine having a washing machine front panel on the front side and a first drum inside which garments are stored; a dryer positioned above the washing machine and having a dryer front panel on the front side and a second drum inside which garments are stored; and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel, providing one or more user interfaces (UIs) for either the washing machine or the dryer, the control panel being: a flat display that displays either a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine or a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; and being activated when the power to both the washing machine and the dryer is turned on.

[0018] In one embodiment, the control panel includes a touch film located in front of the flat display.

[0019] In one embodiment, the flat display constitutes one of the display units of the user interface (UI), and the touch film constitutes one of the input units of the user interface (UI) in a garment processing apparatus.

[0020] In one embodiment, the switching button is positioned to occupy a different area from the touch film.

[0021] In one embodiment, the switching button is provided as a touch sensor separate from the touch film.

[0022] In one embodiment, the control panel includes a power button that receives user input for turning the washing machine or dryer on and off, and an execute button that receives user input for starting or pausing the operation of the washing machine or dryer, wherein the power button and the execute button are provided as touch sensors separate from the touch film.

[0023] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a light-emitting element disposed behind the switching button, the light-emitting element configured to display an activation state of the switching button.

[0024] In one embodiment, when the switching button is activated, the light-emitting element emits light.

[0025] In one embodiment, when the switching button is inactivated, the light-emitting element stops emitting light.

[0026] In one embodiment, in a case where either one of the washing machine operation UI and the dryer operation UI or another UI is displayed on the flat display according to an input from the switching button, if no input is received from a user for a predetermined time or longer, the flat display re-displays either one of the washing machine operation UI and the dryer operation UI.

[0027] In one embodiment, when the switching button is in an activated state, if no input is received from a user for a predetermined time or longer, the switching button is inactivated.

[0028] In one embodiment, an indicator indicating a currently operated object among the washing machine and the dryer is output on the flat display.

[0029] In one embodiment, the indicator is displayed in a first form on the washing machine operation UI, and is displayed in a second form that is distinguishable from the first form on the dryer operation UI.

[0030] In one embodiment, the washing machine operation UI displays one or more characters in a first character color that is distinguishable from a basic character color, and the dryer operation UI displays one or more characters in a second character color that is distinguishable from the basic character color and the first character color.

[0031] In one embodiment, the flat display further displays a composite UI in which operation information of the washing machine and operation information of the dryer are displayed on one screen.

[0032] In one embodiment, according to claim 19, the composite UI is displayed when both the washing machine and the dryer are in operation.

[0033] In one embodiment, the toggle button is deactivated when the composite UI is displayed.

[0034] In one embodiment, the composite UI includes a first region and a second region which is different from the first region, and the first region displays the operation information of the washing machine.

[0035] The second area displays the operation information of the dryer.

[0036] In one embodiment, when the garment processing device receives user touch input to the first area, it displays the washing machine operation UI on the flat display, and when it receives user touch input to the second area, it displays the dryer operation UI on the flat display.

[0037] In one embodiment, the first region is the upper region of the composite UI, and the second region is the lower region of the composite UI.

[0038] In one embodiment, the control panel further includes an execute button that receives user input to start or pause the operation of the washing machine or dryer.

[0039] In one embodiment, the execution button includes a first execution button that receives user input to start or pause the operation of the washing machine; and a second execution button that receives user input to start or pause the operation of the dryer.

[0040] In one embodiment, the control panel further includes a power button that receives user input for turning the washing machine or dryer on and off, and the flat display is arranged to occupy a separate area from the power button.

[0041] In one embodiment, the power button is provided at a position separated from the flat display in one direction, and the toggle button is located between the power button and the flat display.

[0042] In one embodiment, the system further includes an execute button that receives user input to start or pause the operation of the washing machine or the dryer, the execute button being provided at a position separated from the flat display in the opposite direction.

[0043] In one embodiment, the power button includes a first power button that receives user input for turning the washing machine on and off; and a second power button that receives user input for turning the dryer on and off.

[0044] In one embodiment, when the user input to turn on the washing machine is received from the first power button, the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat display to enable control of the washing machine, and when the user input to turn on the dryer is received from the second power button, the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat display to enable control of the dryer.

[0045] A garment processing apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention includes a washing machine having a washing machine front panel on the front side and a first drum inside which garments are contained; a dryer positioned above the washing machine and having a dryer front panel on the front side and a second drum inside which garments are contained; and a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel and providing one or more user interfaces (UIs) for either the washing machine or the dryer, the control panel including: a power button that receives user input for turning the washing machine or the dryer on and off; a flat display that displays either a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine or a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer; and an execute button that receives user input for starting or pausing the operation of the washing machine or dryer, the power button being provided at a position separated from the flat display in one direction, and the execute button being provided at a position separated from the flat display in the other direction.

[0046] In one embodiment, when either the washing machine operation UI or the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat display, the system includes a switch button to which the user inputs a switching command to display the other, the switch button being located between the power button and the flat display.

[0047] In one embodiment, the control panel includes a touch film located in front of the flat display, and the toggle button is provided as a touch sensor separate from the touch film.

[0048] In one embodiment, the control panel includes a touch film located in front of the flat display, and the power button and the run button are provided as touch sensors separate from the touch film. [Effects of the Invention]

[0049] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when a control panel is provided that can control any of the multiple processing units constituting the garment processing device, a simple and clear design can be provided by reducing the physical display space for displaying the activation status of the processing units, and manufacturing costs can be reduced by reducing the number of light-emitting elements that display the activation status.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by providing a user interface to a control panel that can control any of the multiple processing units constituting the garment processing device, a simple user interface can be realized, and when placed in the installation environment, it can provide an interior design effect.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a user interface is provided to a control panel that can control any of the multiple processing units constituting the garment processing device. By allowing the user to visually recognize which processing unit the activated user interface relates to, intuitive use is possible, and ease of use is high.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by providing a user interface to a control panel that can control any of the multiple processing devices constituting the garment processing device, it is possible to obtain a configuration that can reduce misrecognition of touch input due to moisture.

[0053] In the present invention, the effects are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0054] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] [Figure 2]A control panel according to one embodiment of the present invention, and a diagram illustrating the relationship between a washing machine and a dryer.

[0056] [Figure 3] This figure shows a UI area according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] [Figure 3a-4] Figure 3a is a cross-sectional view of the line I-I' in Figure 3, and Figure 4 is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] [Figures 4a-4d] This figure shows the user performing the control using the flow shown in Figure 4, as well as the user interface.

[0059] [Figure 5] This is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] [Figures 5a-5d] This figure shows the user performing the control using the flow shown in Figure 5, as well as the user interface.

[0061] [Figure 6] This is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] [Figures 6a-6g] This figure shows the user performing the control using the flow shown in Figure 6, as well as the user interface.

[0063] [Figure 7] This is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] [Figures 7a-7g]This figure shows the user performing the control according to the flow shown in Figure 7, as well as the user interface.

[0065] [Figure 8] This is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] [Figures 8a-8f] This figure shows the user performing the control using the flow shown in Figure 8, as well as the user interface.

[0067] [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] [Figures 9a-9e] This figure shows the user performing the control according to the flow in Figure 9, as well as the user interface.

[0069] [Figures 10a-10b] This figure shows the user interface of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention and the state in which a user controls it.

[0070] [Figures 11a-11b] This figure shows the user interface of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention and the state in which a user controls it. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0071] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

[0072] However, the present invention can be embodied in various forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly illustrate the present invention, unnecessary parts have been omitted from the drawings, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0073] In this specification, redundant explanations of the same components are omitted.

[0074] Furthermore, when a component is referred to as being "connected" or "linked" to another component in this specification, it should be understood that it may be directly connected to or linked to the other component, or that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0075] Furthermore, the terms used in this specification are used solely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0076] Furthermore, in this specification, a singular expression includes plural expressions unless the meaning is clearly different in context.

[0077] Furthermore, in this specification, terms such as "includes" or "has" are intended to specify the presence of features, figures, stages, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof as 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.

[0078] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "and / or" includes any combination of the items described or any of the items described. In this specification, "a or b" includes "a", "b", or "either a or b".

[0079] Figure 1 shows a garment processing apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention, the garment processing apparatus 1 includes a washing machine 10, a dryer 20, and a control panel 200.

[0080] In describing the present invention, the forward direction (+X), backward direction (-X), first lateral direction (+Y), second lateral direction (-Y), and upward direction (+Z) and downward direction (Z) for each component can all be defined as the same term. For example, the front-to-back direction (+X, -X) of the washing machine 10 can be defined in the same way as the front-to-back direction of the dryer 20, control panel 200, etc., and the lateral direction (Y) and up-and-down direction (Z) can be defined similarly.

[0081] The washing machine 10 and dryer 20 are provided as various types of appliances for processing clothes, such as a washing machine for washing clothes and / or a dryer for drying clothes. The washing machine 10 is a washing machine and the dryer 20 is a dryer. The washing machine 10 and dryer 20 may both be washing machines or dryers, the washing machine 10 may be a dryer and the dryer 20 may be a washing machine, or they may be various other appliances for processing clothes.

[0082] In this embodiment, the washing machine 10 located at the bottom corresponds to a washing machine for washing clothes. Inside the washing machine 10 are a first drum 12 and a tub 14 in which clothes are placed. The first drum 12 inside the washing machine 10 is rotatably mounted inside the tub 14. The dryer 20 is located above the washing machine 10. The washing machine 10 supports the dryer 20. The dryer 20 corresponds to a dryer for drying clothes. The dryer 20 is equipped with a first drum 12 and a tub 14 in which clothes are placed.

[0083] The washing machine 10 includes a first cabinet 110 that forms the exterior. The first cabinet 110 is provided with a washing machine front panel 112 on its front side. The washing machine front panel 112 has a clothing opening that communicates with a first drum 12. The clothing opening is opened and closed by a first cabinet door 17. In one embodiment, the first drum 12 of the washing machine 10 has rotation axes aligned in the front-rear direction (+X, -Y).

[0084] The washing machine 10 is provided with first side panels 115 on each of the sides in the lateral direction (Y), a first rear panel (not shown) on the rear side, a first top panel (not shown) on the upper side, and a first bottom panel (not shown) on the lower side.

[0085] The washing machine front panel 112, the first side panel 115, the first rear panel (not shown), the first top panel 119, and the first bottom panel (not shown) are combined to form the first cabinet 110 and are interconnected. The first cabinet 110 forms a space inside which interior components constituting the washing machine 10, such as the first drum 12, are provided.

[0086] In the washing machine 10, clothing and other items to be processed are placed inside the first cabinet 110 through the clothing opening, housed inside the first drum 12, and the washing process is carried out by the washing machine 10.

[0087] A detergent opening is formed in the front panel 112 of the washing machine, and a detergent storage unit 30 is inserted into the detergent opening. In one embodiment of the garment processing apparatus 1, the washing machine 10 is placed on the ground, and the detergent storage unit 30 is positioned above the garment opening of the washing machine 10 so that it is easy to retract and pull out the detergent storage unit 30. The detergent storage unit 30 is positioned between the garment opening of the washing machine 10 and the control panel 200. That is, the detergent storage unit 30 is positioned above the garment opening of the washing machine 10 and below the control panel 200. The detergent storage unit 30 is retracted into or pulled out of the first cabinet 110 by the user. For example, the user separates the detergent storage unit 30 from the first cabinet 110, stores detergent in the detergent storage unit 30, and then retracts the detergent storage unit 30 into the first cabinet 110.

[0088] In one embodiment, the washing machine front panel 112 has a filter opening into which a filter unit 40 for collecting foreign matter from the wash water is inserted, and the filter unit 40 is provided inserted into the filter opening. The filter unit 40 is provided on one side of the lower part of the washing machine front panel 112. The filter unit 40 is drawn into the interior of the first cabinet 110 through the filter opening and connected to a wash water flow path discharged from the tub 14. After the washing process is completed, the filter unit 40 filters foreign matter from the wash water discharged from the tub 14. The role of the filter unit 40 is not necessarily limited to this, and it may be provided to filter foreign matter from various subjects as needed. For example, the filter unit 40 may be provided to filter foreign matter from the wash water for performing the washing process before the washing process is completed.

[0089] The user retracts or pulls the filter unit 40 into or out of the first cabinet 110 through the filter opening. The pulled-out filter unit 40 can be reused or replaced after cleaning. The retraction and pulling cycle of the filter unit 40 may be relatively longer in relation to the detergent storage unit 30, thereby allowing one embodiment of the present invention to position the detergent opening into which the detergent storage unit 30, which has a relatively short retraction and pulling cycle, is retracted on the upper side of the washing machine front panel 112. Alternatively, the filter opening into which the filter unit 40, which has a relatively long retraction and pulling cycle, is retracted can be positioned on the lower side of the washing machine front panel 112 to improve ease of use and realize a washing machine front panel 112 structure with excellent space utilization.

[0090] Furthermore, the drain channel for the washing water, which is connected to the tab 14 inside the first cabinet 110, may be located on the lower side inside the first cabinet 110 to facilitate the draining of the washing water. In one embodiment of the present invention, the filter unit 40 is provided on the lower side of the first cabinet 110 and can be efficiently connected to the drain channel for the washing water.

[0091] The washing machine 10 is provided with a washing machine control unit 19. The washing machine control unit 19 is configured to control various devices that make up the washing machine 10. The washing machine control unit 19 is located inside the first cabinet 110. The washing machine control unit 19 includes a circuit board and electrical components mounted on the circuit board. In this embodiment, the washing machine control unit 19 checks information corresponding to the operation signal received from the control panel 200 in its memory and performs device control corresponding to the operation signal. The washing machine control unit 19 transmits the status of the washing machine 10 to the control panel 200.

[0092] The dryer 20 includes a second cabinet 120 that forms the exterior. The second cabinet 120 includes a dryer front panel 122 located on the front side. The dryer front panel 122 has a garment opening that communicates with a second drum 22. The garment opening is opened and closed by a second cabinet door 27.

[0093] The dryer 20 is provided with second side panels 125 on each of the two sides in the lateral direction (+Y, -Y). The dryer 20 is provided with a second rear panel (not shown) on the rear side, a second top panel 127 on the top side, and a second bottom panel (not shown) on the bottom side.

[0094] The dryer front panel 122, second side panel 125, second rear panel (not shown), second top panel 127, and second bottom panel (not shown) are combined to form a second cabinet 120 and are interconnected. The second cabinet 120 forms a space inside which interior components constituting the dryer 20, such as a second drum 22, are provided.

[0095] Clothes to be processed are placed inside the second cabinet 120 through the garment opening of the dryer 20 and then placed inside the second drum 22. The clothes placed inside the second drum 22 undergo processing such as washing and drying by the dryer 20.

[0096] In one embodiment, the dryer 20 is provided with a clothing opening on the dryer front panel 122, along with a second cabinet door 27. The second drum 22 housed in the dryer 20 has rotation axes aligned in the front-to-back direction (X).

[0097] The dryer 20 is positioned above the washing machine 10. In one embodiment, the lower part of the washing machine 10 is connected to the upper part of the dryer 20. The upper part of the washing machine 10 has a structure that supports the dryer 20. For example, the first upper panel (not shown) of the washing machine 10 has a structure that directly or indirectly supports the second lower panel (not shown) of the dryer 20.

[0098] The dryer 20 is provided with a dryer control unit 29. The dryer control unit 29 is configured to control various devices that constitute the dryer 2. The dryer control unit 29 is located inside the second cabinet 120. The dryer control unit 29 includes a circuit board and electrical components mounted on the circuit board. In this embodiment, the dryer control unit 29 checks the operation signals received from the control panel 200 in a memory corresponding to the operation signals and performs device control corresponding to the operation signals. The dryer control unit 29 transmits the status of the dryer 20 to the control panel 200.

[0099] The control panel 200 is positioned between the washing machine front panel 112 and the dryer front panel 122. By positioning the control panel 200 between the washing machine front panel 112 and the dryer front panel 122, which are at a height corresponding to approximately the user's waist, a convenient height for user operation can be ensured. The control panel 200 is signal-connected to at least one of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20. In this embodiment, the control panel 200 is signal-connected to the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20. In this embodiment, the control panel 200 is signal-connected to the washing machine control unit 19 and / or the dryer 20.

[0100] The front surface 210 of the control panel 200 is provided with a UI area 220 on which a user interface UI is displayed.

[0101] Figure 2 is a simple diagram showing the relationship between a control panel 200 according to one embodiment of the present invention, a washing machine 10, and a dryer 20.

[0102] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control panel 200 includes a display unit 201, an input unit 202, and a control unit 203.

[0103] The display unit 201 is configured to show the status of the washing machine 10 and / or the dryer 20. The display unit 201 is provided in the UI area 220 of the control panel 200. The display unit 201 displays operation information and user interface (UI) for one or more of the washing machine and / or dryer.

[0104] The input unit 202 is configured to receive operating commands from the user for controlling the washing machine 10 and / or dryer 20. The input unit 202 is provided on the control panel 200. The input unit 202 is provided as a touchscreen. The input unit 202 is provided as a touch sensor. The input unit 202 is provided as a physical button.

[0105] The control unit 203 is located inside the control panel 200, that is, on the rear side of the front section 210. One or more control units 203 are provided. The control unit 203 is electrically connected to the washing machine 10 and / or the dryer 20 and exchanges signals. The control unit 203 is connected to the display unit 201 and / or the input unit 202 and exchanges signals. The aforementioned signals include control commands, user input, and device status information. The control unit 203 detects the operation signals from the input unit 202. The control unit 203 checks the information corresponding to the input operation signals in its memory. The control unit 203 transmits display data to the display unit 201. The display unit 201 displays the operating status of the washing machine 10, the operating status of the dryer 20, and / or the contents of the commands entered by the user, in accordance with the display data transmitted from the control unit 203. The control unit 203 switches the configuration of the input unit 202 to an activated or deactivated state. The control unit 203 switches the configuration of the display unit 201 to an activated or deactivated state. The control unit 203 includes a circuit board and electrical components mounted on the circuit board.

[0106] In the embodiment, the relationship in which the control unit 203 is included in the control panel 200 was explained, but the control unit 203 does not have to be classified as part of the control panel 200. Also, the control unit 203 may be provided in a location other than the control panel 200. The control unit 203 is provided to the washing machine 10 and / or the dryer 20. Alternatively, the control unit 203 is provided to the control panel 200 and to the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20, respectively. The control unit 203 is provided integrated with the washing machine control unit 19 and / or the dryer control unit 29. Or, the control unit 203 is understood as an integrated concept with the washing machine control unit 19 and / or the dryer control unit 29.

[0107] Figure 3 shows a UI area 220 according to one embodiment of the present invention. A user interface (UI) is provided in the UI area 220.

[0108] The user interface displayed in the UI area 220 includes a first power button 221, a second power button 222, a touch display 223, a toggle button 224, an additional function button 225, a first execute button 226, and a second execute button 227.

[0109] The first power button 221, the second power button 222, the switch button 224, the additional function button 225, the first execution button 226, and the second execution button 227 are provided as touch sensors or physical buttons. The touch display 223 consists of a combination of a flat panel display and a touchscreen. In this embodiment, the flat panel display means a thin display and is provided in various forms such as LCD, PDP, AMLCD, PMLCD, OLED, and LED.

[0110] The first power button 221 is displayed as a power icon for the washing machine 10. The first power button 221 receives user input to turn the washing machine 10 ON or OFF. In this embodiment, when the user touches the first power button 221, the control unit 203 receives a turn-on or turn-off command for the washing machine 10.

[0111] The second power button 222 is displayed as a power icon for the dryer 20. The second power button 222 is positioned to occupy a different area from the first power button 221. In this embodiment, the first power button 221 and the second power button 222 are positioned vertically. The second power button 222 receives user input to turn the dryer 20 ON or OFF. In this embodiment, when the user touches the second power button 222, the control unit 203 receives a turn-on or turn-off command for the dryer 20.

[0112] The first power button 221 and the second power button 222 are provided as separate touch sensors, distinct from the touch film provided to the touch display 223. When the first power button 221 and the second power button 222 are provided in areas separated from the touch display 223, malfunctions of the device can be reduced. The garment processing device 1 is placed in a humid environment. By separating the areas of the touch film forming the touch display 223 from those of the first power button 221 and the second power button 222, touch malfunctions due to moisture can be minimized. For example, when the washing machine is in operation, if the user tries to turn on the dryer and approach the dryer operation UI, problems such as the washing machine options being changed due to a malfunction caused by moisture can be prevented.

[0113] The touch display 223 is positioned to occupy a different area from the first power button 221 and the second power button 222. The touch display 223 includes a touch film that constitutes one of the input units 202 and a flat display that constitutes one of the display units 201. The touch display 223 displays one of the following: a washing machine operation UI for controlling the washing machine 10, a dryer operation UI for controlling the dryer 20, and a composite UI that displays operating information for both the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 on a single screen. The washing machine operation UI, dryer operation UI, and composite UI are described in detail below.

[0114] The toggle button 224 is positioned to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, and the touch display 223. The toggle button 224 is provided as a separate touch sensor, isolated from the touch film provided to the touch display 223. Providing the toggle button 224 in an area isolated from the touch display 223 can reduce malfunctions of the device. The garment processing device 1 is placed in a humid environment. By separating the areas of the touch film that makes up the touch display 223 from those of the toggle button 224, touch malfunctions due to moisture can be minimized. For example, it can prevent problems such as accidentally changing the washing machine options due to a touch malfunction caused by moisture when trying to turn on the dryer and approach the dryer operation UI while the washing machine is running.

[0115] The toggle button 224 is displayed as a toggle icon. The toggle button 224 receives user input to switch the controlled device. It is activated when both the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 are ON. When the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223 and the toggle button 224 is pressed, the controlled device is switched to the dryer 20 and the dryer operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223. When the dryer operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223 and the toggle button 224 is pressed, the controlled device is switched to the washing machine 10 and the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the touch display 223. The toggle button 224 is deactivated when the power to one or more of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 is OFF.

[0116] The additional function button 225 is displayed as a text icon. The additional function button 225 is positioned to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, and the toggle button 224. The additional function button 225 receives user input for setting additional functions of the washing machine 10 and / or dryer 20. In this embodiment, when the user touches the additional function button 225, items that allow for additional settings for the washing machine 10 and / or dryer 20 (e.g., reservation, alarm volume, etc.) are displayed on the touch display 223.

[0117] The first execution button 226 is displayed as a play / pause icon. The first execution button 226 is positioned to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, the switch button 224, and the additional function button 225. The first power button 221 receives user input to start or pause the operation of the washing machine 10.

[0118] The second execution button 227 is displayed as a play / pause icon. The second execution button 227 is positioned to occupy a different area from the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the touch display 223, the switch button 224, the additional function button 225, and the first execution button 226. The first execution button 226 and the second execution button 227 are positioned vertically. The second power button 222 receives user input to start or pause the operation of the dryer 20.

[0119] Figure 3a is a schematic cross-sectional view of the area where the toggle button 224 according to one embodiment of the present invention is located, and is a diagram of the I-I' cross-section in Figure 3.

[0120] Referring to Figure 3, the toggle button 224 is displayed by forming a toggle icon shape 224b that is light-transmitting in an area where a light-blocking film 224a is set, which is provided behind the front portion 210 of the control panel 200. A touch sensor 224c is provided on the surface where the toggle icon shape 224b is provided. The touch sensor 224c is provided in various forms such as electrostatic, pressure-reducing, and infrared. A light-emitting element 230 is positioned behind the toggle icon shape 224b. The light-emitting element 230 is controlled to emit light on / off. The light-emitting element 230 indicates the activation state of the toggle button 224. In this embodiment, the light-emitting element 230 emits light when the toggle button 224 is activated. When the toggle button 224 is deactivated, the light-emitting element 230 turns off light emission. In this embodiment, one light-emitting element 230 is positioned behind the toggle button 224.

[0121] In this invention, although the toggle button 224 was described as an example, the first power button 221, the second power button 222, the additional function button 225, the first execution button 226, and the second execution button 227 are also configured in the same or similar manner, and the activation status of the button can be indicated by a light-emitting element.

[0122] The user interface and control method of a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 4 to 11b. In the drawings used to explain the present invention, dark or thick lines indicate an activated state, and light or thin lines indicate an inactivated state. When a button is activated, it receives input commands; when it is inactive, it does not receive input commands.

[0123] Figure 4 is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 4a to 4d show the user performing the control according to the flow in Figure 4 and the user interface.

[0124] The following will be explained with reference to Figure 4. The operation steps for running the washing machine 10 will be described. When the user touches the first power button 221 (see Figure 4a), the power of the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state (S111). When the power of the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 4b (S112). Also, when the power of the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the first execution button 226 is activated as shown in Figure 4b (S113).

[0125] The washing machine operation UI 310 is a user interface that enables control of the washing machine 10. The washing machine operation UI 310 includes a first screen. The first screen displays the course name 311, course description 312, processing options 313, and indicators 315. The course name 311 displays the name of a predetermined processing course for the washing machine 10. The course name 311 also displays the selected course name 311. In this embodiment, the washing machine 10 is a washing machine, and the displayed course name is the "Standard Wash" course.

[0126] The course description 312 displays a description of the processing course corresponding to the displayed course name 311. In this example, the course name 311 is "Standard Wash," and the course description 312 is displayed as "Clean normal clothes." The course description 312 is located below the course name 311 and is displayed in a smaller font than the course name 311.

[0127] Processing option 313 displays detailed options for the processing course. In the example, the set number of rinses, spin-drying intensity, water temperature, etc., are displayed.

[0128] The indicator 315 displays which of the washing machine 10 and dryer 20 is currently being operated. In this embodiment, the indicator 315 is provided in the form of an icon. In other embodiments, the indicator 315 may be provided in the form of text.

[0129] The indicator 315 is displayed in the upper end region on one side of the washing machine operation UI 310. In this embodiment, the indicator 315 is displayed in a first form. The first form is a form in which two rectangles are stacked vertically, with the lower rectangle being colored. The first form is a form that is colored with a first color. The indicator 315 provides the user with intuitive visual information about what the currently controlled processing device is. In this embodiment, the indicator 315 is displayed on the washing machine operation UI 310 so that the user can visually recognize that the currently displayed UI is the washing machine operation UI 310 and that the controlled device is the washing machine 10.

[0130] The garment processing device 1 receives input from the user via the washing machine operation UI 310, specifying a processing course and / or processing options for the washing machine 10 (S120). Once the settings for the processing course and processing options for the washing machine 10 are complete, the user touches the first execution button 226 to command the washing machine 10 to operate, as shown in Figure 4c (S130). Upon receiving the user input from the first execution button 226, the control unit 203 transmits a signal to the washing machine 10 to operate with the set processing course and processing options. In this embodiment, the control unit 203 transmits a signal to the washing machine control unit 19 of the washing machine 10, and the washing machine control unit 19 transmits operation commands to each element constituting the washing machine 10. As a result, upon receiving input from the user from the first execution button 226, the washing machine 10 performs an operation for garment processing with the set processing course and processing options (S140).

[0131] When the washing machine 10 is started, a second screen is displayed on the washing machine operation UI 310 (see Figure 4d). The second screen displays processing information 317 and a time bar 317a. An indicator 315 may also be displayed on the second screen. The processing information 317 includes the course name, remaining processing time, and processing options. The time bar 317a displays the processing time. The time bar 317a is displayed as a bar. The time bar 317a displays the elapsed processing time using the length that fills the inside of the bar. The amount that fills the inside of the bar increases as the processing time elapses. The filling color of the time bar 317a is a first color.

[0132] Figure 5 is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 5a to 5d show the user performing the control according to the flow in Figure 5 and the user interface.

[0133] The following will be explained with reference to Figure 5. The operation steps for running the dryer 20 will be described. When the user touches the second power button 222 (see Figure 5a), the power of the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state (S211). When the power of the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 5b (S212). Also, when the power of the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the second execution button 227 is activated as shown in Figure 5b (S213).

[0134] The dryer operation UI 320 is a user interface that enables control of the dryer 20. The dryer operation UI 320 includes a first screen. The first screen displays the course name 321, course description 322, processing options 323, and indicators 325. The course name 321 displays the name of a predetermined processing course for the dryer 20. The course name 321 also displays the selected course name 321. In this embodiment, the dryer 20 is a dryer, and the displayed course name is the "Standard Drying" course.

[0135] Course description 322 displays a description of the processing course corresponding to the displayed course name 321. In this example, course name 321 is "Standard Drying," and course description 322 is displayed as "For normal clothes to be dry." Course description 322 is located below course name 321 and is displayed in a smaller font than course name 321.

[0136] Processing option 323 displays detailed options for the processing course. In the example, the set drying degree, drying time, and whether the wrinkle prevention function is ON or OFF are displayed.

[0137] The indicator 325 is displayed in the upper end region on one side of the dryer operation UI 320. The indicator 325 is displayed in a second form. The second form is distinct from the first form described above. The second form consists of two stacked rectangles, with the upper rectangle being colored. The second form is colored with a second color. The second color is distinct from the second color described above. The indicator 325 provides the user with intuitive visual information about what processing device is currently being operated. In this embodiment, the indicator 325 is displayed on the dryer operation UI 320 so that the user can visually recognize that the currently displayed UI is the dryer operation UI 320 and that the controlled object is the dryer 20.

[0138] The garment processing device 1 receives a processing course and / or processing options for the dryer 20 from the user via the dryer operation UI 320 (S220). Once the processing course and processing options for the dryer 20 have been set, the user touches the second execution button 227 to command the dryer 20 to operate, as shown in Figure 5c (S230). When the control unit 203 receives the user input from the second execution button 227, it transmits a signal to the dryer 20 to operate with the set processing course and processing options. In this embodiment, the control unit 203 transmits a signal to the dryer control unit 29 of the dryer 20, and the dryer control unit 29 transmits operation commands to each element constituting the dryer 20. As a result, when the user inputs the second execution button 227, the dryer 20 performs an operation for garment processing with the set processing course and processing options (S240).

[0139] When the dryer 20 is started, a second screen is displayed on the dryer operation UI 320 (see Figure 5d). The second screen displays processing information 327 and a time bar 327a. An indicator 325 may also be displayed on the second screen. The processing information 327 includes the course name, remaining processing time, and processing options. The time bar 327a displays the processing time. The time bar 327a is displayed as a bar. The time bar 327a displays the elapsed processing time using the length that fills the inside of the bar. The amount that fills the inside of the bar increases as the processing time elapses. The filling color of the time bar 327a is a second color.

[0140] Figure 6 is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 6a to 6g show the user performing the control according to the flow in Figure 6 and the user interface.

[0141] The following will be explained with reference to Figure 6. The operating steps for running the dryer 20 will be described. In this embodiment, the washing machine 10 is provided in a state where the power is kept ON. Here, the power ON state means either a standby state for receiving a processing command or a state during operation. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 6a, an input signal is received when the user touches the first power button 221, and the washing machine 10 is kept ON.

[0142] When the washing machine 10 is powered ON, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 6b, and the first execution button 226 is activated (S310).

[0143] The user turns on the dryer 20 while the washing machine 10 is already powered on (S321). The user can switch the dryer 20 to the ON state by touching the second power button 222 (see Figure 6c).

[0144] When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the switch button 224 is activated as shown in Figure 6d (S322). When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 6d (S323). When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the second execute button 227 is activated as shown in Figure 6d (S324).

[0145] The garment processing device 1 receives a processing course and / or processing options for the dryer 20 from the user via the dryer operation UI 320 (S330). Once the processing course and processing options for the dryer 20 have been set, the user touches the second execution button 227 to command the dryer 20 to operate, as shown in Figure 6e (S340). When the control unit 203 receives the user input from the second execution button 227, it transmits a signal to the dryer 20 to operate with the set processing course and processing options. In this embodiment, the control unit 203 transmits a signal to the dryer control unit 29 of the dryer 20, and the dryer control unit 29 transmits operation commands to each element constituting the dryer 20. As a result, when the user inputs the second execution button 227, the dryer 20 executes the operation for garment processing with the set processing course and processing options (S350).

[0146] In this embodiment, the garment processing device 1 determines whether the washing machine 10 is in operation (S360). If the washing machine 10 is not in operation (No), the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S371). The toggle button 224 remains activated (S372). Specifically, the second screen of the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 (see Figure 6f). The second screen displays processing information 327 and a time bar 327a. An indicator 325 may also be displayed on the second screen. The processing information 327 includes the course name, remaining processing time, and processing options. The time bar 327a displays the processing time. The time bar 327a is displayed as a bar. The time bar 327a displays the elapsed processing time using the length that fills the inside of the bar. The time bar 327a increases the amount that fills the inside of the bar as the processing time elapses. The fill color for time bar 327a is the second color.

[0147] If the washing machine 10 is in operation (Yes), the combined UI 330 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 6g (S381). Before the combined UI 330 is displayed, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed during the set time (not shown in the flowchart). Also, the toggle button 224 is deactivated (S382). The combined UI 330 displays the operation information of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 on a single screen. The combined UI 330 is displayed when both the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 are in operation. The combined UI 330 is provided with a first area 331 and a second area 332. The first area 331 displays the operation information of the washing machine 10. The second area 332 displays the operation information of the dryer 20. The first area 331 and the second area 332 are displayed on a single screen. The first region 331 occupies the upper region of the composite UI 330, and the second region 332 occupies the lower region of the composite UI 330.

[0148] The first area 331 displays processing information and a time bar 331a. The processing information includes the remaining processing time. The time bar 331a displays the processing time. The time bar 331a is displayed as a bar. The time bar 331a displays the elapsed processing time using the length that fills the inside of the bar. The amount that fills the inside of the bar increases as the processing time elapses. The filling color of the time bar 331a is a first color. User touch input is received in the first area 331. When user touch input to the first area 331 is received, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the washing machine operation UI 310.

[0149] The second area 332 displays processing information and a time bar 332a. The processing information includes the remaining processing time. The time bar 332a displays the processing time. The time bar 332a is displayed as a bar. The time bar 332a displays the elapsed processing time using the length that fills the inside of the bar. The amount that fills the inside of the bar increases as the processing time elapses. The filling color of the time bar 332a is a second color. User touch input is received in the second area 332. When user touch input is received in the second area 332, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the dryer operation UI 320.

[0150] Figure 7 is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 7a to 7g show the user performing the control according to the flowchart in Figure 7 and the user interface.

[0151] The following will be explained with reference to Figure 7. The operating steps for running the washing machine 10 will be described. In this embodiment, the dryer 20 is provided in a state where the power is kept ON. Here, the power ON state means a state in which it is either in a standby state for receiving a processing command or in operation. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7a, the user touches the second power button 222, and the dryer 20 is in a state where the power is kept ON.

[0152] When the dryer 20 is powered on, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in Figure 7b, and the second execution button 227 is activated (S410).

[0153] The user turns on the washing machine 10 while the dryer 20 is powered on (S421). The washing machine 10 can be switched on by the user touching the first power button 221 (see Figure 7c).

[0154] When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the switch button 224 is activated as shown in Figure 7d (S722). When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 7d (S423). When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the first execute button 226 is activated as shown in Figure 7d (S424).

[0155] The garment processing device 1 receives input from the user via the washing machine operation UI 310, specifying the processing course and / or processing options for the washing machine 10 (S430). Once the settings for the processing course and processing options for the washing machine 10 are complete, the user touches the first execution button 226, as shown in Figure 7e, to command the washing machine 10 to operate (S440). Upon receiving the user input from the first execution button 226, the control unit 203 transmits a signal to the washing machine 10 to operate with the set processing course and processing options. In this embodiment, the control unit 203 transmits a signal to the washing machine control unit 19 of the washing machine 10, and the washing machine control unit 19 transmits operation commands to each element constituting the washing machine 10. As a result, upon receiving input from the user from the first execution button 226, the washing machine 10 performs an operation for garment processing with the set processing course and processing options (S450).

[0156] In this embodiment, the garment processing device 1 determines whether the dryer 20 is in operation (S460). If the dryer 20 is not in operation (No), the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 (S471). The toggle button 224 remains active (S472). Specifically, the second screen of the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 (see Figure 7f). The second screen displays processing information 317 and a time bar 317a. An indicator 315 may also be displayed on the second screen. The processing information 317 includes the course name, remaining processing time, and processing options. The time bar 317a displays the processing time. The time bar 317a is displayed as a bar. The time bar 317a displays the elapsed processing time using the length that fills the inside of the bar. The time bar 317a increases the amount that fills the inside of the bar as the processing time elapses. The fill color for time bar 317a is the first color.

[0157] If the dryer 20 is in operation (Yes), the combined UI 330 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 7g (S481). Before the combined UI 330 is displayed, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed during the set time (not shown in the flowchart). Also, the toggle button 224 is deactivated (S482). The combined UI 330 displays the operation information of the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 on a single screen. The combined UI 330 is displayed when both the washing machine 10 and the dryer 20 are in operation. The combined UI 330 is provided with a first area 331 and a second area 332. The first area 331 displays the operation information of the washing machine 10. The second area 332 displays the operation information of the dryer 20. The first area 331 and the second area 332 are displayed on a single screen. The first region 331 occupies the upper region of the composite UI 330, and the second region 332 occupies the lower region of the composite UI 330.

[0158] The first area 331 displays processing information and a time bar 331a. The processing information includes the remaining processing time. The time bar 331a displays the processing time. The time bar 331a is displayed as a bar. The time bar 331a displays the elapsed processing time using the length that fills the inside of the bar. The amount that fills the inside of the bar increases as the processing time elapses. The filling color of the time bar 331a is a first color. User touch input is received in the first area 331. When user touch input to the first area 331 is received, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the washing machine operation UI 310.

[0159] The second area 332 displays processing information and a time bar 332a. The processing information includes the remaining processing time. The time bar 332a displays the processing time. The time bar 332a is displayed as a bar. The time bar 332a displays the elapsed processing time using the length that fills the inside of the bar. The amount that fills the inside of the bar increases as the processing time elapses. The filling color of the time bar 332a is a second color. User touch input is received in the second area 332. When user touch input is received in the second area 332, the touch display 223 is controlled to display the dryer operation UI 320.

[0160] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 8a to 8f show the user performing the control according to the flow in Figure 8 and the user interface.

[0161] The explanation will be given with reference to Figure 8. In this embodiment, the washing machine 10 is provided in a state where the power is kept ON. Here, the power ON state means a state in which it is either in a standby state for receiving a processing command or in operation. This is the state in which the power of the washing machine 10 is kept ON after receiving an input signal when the user touches the first power button 221, as shown in Figure 8a.

[0162] When the washing machine 10 is powered ON, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in Figure 8b, and the first execution button 226 is activated (S510).

[0163] The user turns on the dryer 20 while the washing machine 10 is already powered on (S521). The user can switch the dryer 20 to the ON state by touching the second power button 222 (see Figure 8c).

[0164] When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the switch button 224 is activated as shown in Figure 8d (S522). When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the second execution button 227 is activated as shown in Figure 8d. When the dryer 20 is switched to the ON state, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 8d (S523).

[0165] As shown in Figure 8e, when the power to the washing machine 10 and dryer 20 is turned ON and the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, and input from the switch button 224 is received (S531), the screen on the touch display 223 switches to display the washing machine operation UI 310 (S540), as shown in Figure 8f.

[0166] If the power to the washing machine 10 and dryer 20 is ON (S532) and the washing machine 10 is in operation, and no user operation commands are entered for a set time (e.g., 5 seconds) or longer (S533), the touch display 223 switches screens and displays the washing machine operation UI 310 (S540). Here, a user operation command refers to inputting commands using the dryer operation UI 320, such as selecting a processing course and / or processing options. The user operation command may further include the concept of inputting an operation command by touching the second execution button 227.

[0167] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the user interface and control method of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 9a to 9e show the user performing the control according to the flow in Figure 9 and the user interface.

[0168] The explanation will be given with reference to Figure 9. In this embodiment, the dryer 20 is provided in a state where the power is kept ON. Here, the power ON state means either a standby state for receiving a processing command or a state during operation. This is the state in which the power of the dryer 20 is kept ON after receiving an input signal when the user touches the second power button 222, as shown in Figure 9a.

[0169] When the dryer 20 is powered on, the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed on the touch display 223, as shown in Figure 9b, and the second execution button 227 is activated (S610).

[0170] The user turns on the washing machine 10 while the dryer 20 is powered on (S621). The washing machine 10 can be switched on by the user touching the first power button 221 (see Figure 9c).

[0171] When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the switch button 224 is activated as shown in Figure 9d (S622). When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the first execute button 226 is activated as shown in Figure 9d. When the washing machine 10 is switched to the ON state, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223 as shown in Figure 9d (S623).

[0172] As shown in Figure 9e, when the washing machine 10 and dryer 20 are powered ON and the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed on the touch display 223, input from the switch button 224 is received (S631), and the screen on the touch display 223 switches to display the dryer operation UI 320 (S640).

[0173] If the power to the washing machine 10 and dryer 20 is ON (S632) and the dryer 20 is in operation, and no user operation command is entered for a set time (e.g., 5 seconds) or longer (S633), the screen on the touch display 223 will switch to display the dryer operation UI 320 (S640). Here, a user operation command refers to inputting commands using the washing machine operation UI 310, such as selecting a processing course and / or processing options. The user operation command may further include the concept of inputting an operation command by touching the first execution button 226.

[0174] Figures 10a and 10b show the user interface of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention and the state in which a user controls it.

[0175] The washing machine operation UI 310 displays one or more characters in a first character color 319a that is distinct from the basic character color. In the embodiment shown in Figure 10a, the garment processing device 1 receives a touch input from the user by touching the overall display button 311a located to the right of the course name 311. See also Figure 10b. When the overall display button 311a is touched, the washing machine operation UI 310 displays a list of configurable courses. Of the configurable courses, the currently selected course (in this example, "Standard Wash") is displayed in a first character color 319a that is different from the basic character color used to display unselected courses. From this, the user can visually recognize which course they have selected.

[0176] Figures 11a and 11b show the user interface of a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention and the state in which a user controls it.

[0177] The explanation will be given with reference to Figure 11. The dryer operation UI 320 displays one or more characters in a basic character color and a second character color 329a that is distinct from the first character color. In the embodiment shown in Figure 11a, the garment processing device 1 receives a touch input from the user by touching the overall display button 321a located to the right of the course name 321. Refer to Figure 11b. When the overall display button 321a is touched, the dryer operation UI 320 displays a list of configurable courses. Of the configurable courses, the currently selected course (in this example, "Standard Drying") is displayed in a second character color 329a that is distinct from the basic character color and the first character color 319a that displays unselected courses. From this, the user can visually recognize which course they have selected. In addition, the washing machine operation UI 310 is displayed in the first character color and the dryer operation UI 320 is displayed in the second character color, allowing the user to visually recognize which device is currently being operated.

[0178] In the embodiment, the control flow of the garment processing apparatus 1 can be embodied by any one of the control unit 203, the washing machine control unit 19, and the dryer control unit 29. In the embodiment, the control flow of the garment processing apparatus 1 can be embodied in the form of a recording medium that stores computer-executable instruction words. The instruction words are stored in the form of program code and, when executed by the processor, generate a program module that can perform the operations of the disclosed embodiment. The recording medium can be embodied by a computer-readable recording medium.

[0179] Although this invention describes specific embodiments, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that the invention can be improved and modified in various ways within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the invention provided by the following claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine having a front panel on the front side and a first drum inside which clothes are stored, A dryer is provided, which is positioned above the aforementioned washing machine, has a dryer front panel on the front side, and contains a second drum inside which clothes are stored. The system includes a control panel provided between the washing machine front panel and the dryer front panel, which provides a user interface (UI) for both the washing machine and the dryer, The control panel includes a flat display that shows either a washing machine operation UI for operating the washing machine or a dryer operation UI for operating the dryer. When the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat display and a toggle button on the control panel is pressed, the flat display displays the dryer operation UI. When the switch button is pressed while the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat display, the flat display displays the washing machine operation UI. The aforementioned switching button is activated when the power to the other of the washing machine and the dryer is turned on while one of the washing machine and the dryer is in operation, in a garment processing device.

2. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the switching button is activated when the power to both the washing machine and the dryer is turned on.

3. The aforementioned control panel is The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a touch sensor film located on the front surface of the flat display.

4. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the switching button is provided as a touch sensor separate from the touch sensor film.

5. The aforementioned control panel is A power button that receives user input for turning the power of the washing machine or dryer on and off, Includes an execute button that receives user input to start or pause the operation of the washing machine or dryer, The garment processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the power button and the execution button are provided as touch sensors separated from the touch sensor film.

6. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a light-emitting element positioned behind the switch button and emitting light when the switch button is activated.

7. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the flat display, while either the washing machine operation UI or the dryer operation UI is displayed, displays the other one of the washing machine operation UI or the dryer operation UI in response to input from the switching button, and if no input is received from the user for a predetermined period of time or longer, displays either the washing machine operation UI or the dryer operation UI again.

8. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the toggle button is switched to an inactive state if no user input is received for a predetermined period of time or longer while in the activated state.

9. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the flat display outputs an indicator indicating which of the washing machine and the dryer is currently being operated on.

10. The washing machine operation UI displays one or more characters in a first character color, The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the dryer operation UI displays one or more characters in a second character color different from the first character color.

11. The aforementioned flat display is The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, which displays a combined UI on a single screen that shows the operation information of the washing machine and the operation information of the dryer.

12. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the toggle button is deactivated when the composite UI is displayed.

13. The first area of ​​the composite UI displays the operating information of the washing machine, and the second area displays the operating information of the dryer. When user touch input is received in the first area, the washing machine operation UI is displayed on the flat display. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein when user touch input to the second area is received, the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat display.

14. The first region is the upper region of the composite UI, The garment processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the second region is the lower region of the composite UI.

15. The aforementioned control panel is A first execute button that receives user input to start or pause the operation of the washing machine, The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a second execute button that receives user input for starting or pausing the operation of the dryer.

16. The aforementioned control panel is A first power button that receives user input for turning the washing machine on and off, The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a second power button for receiving user input to turn the dryer on and off (ON-OFF);

17. The aforementioned control panel is It further includes a power button, spaced apart from the flat display, that receives user input for turning the washing machine or dryer on and off. The power button is provided at a position separated from the flat display in one direction. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching button is located between the power button and the flat display.

18. The control panel further includes an execute button that receives user input to start or pause the operation of the washing machine or the dryer. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the execution button is provided at a position separated from the flat display in the opposite direction.

19. The garment processing apparatus is When the system receives user input to turn on the washing machine from the first power button, the flat display displays the washing machine operation UI. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein when the apparatus receives user input to turn on the power of the dryer from the second power button, the dryer operation UI is displayed on the flat display.

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