Washing machine

Abstract

A washing machine comprises a housing, a tub to be provided inside the housing, and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device comprises a detergent container including a detergent inlet port and a cover opening at a portion of a circumference of the detergent inlet port, a cap coupleable to and decoupleable from the detergent container, the cap including a cap guide spaced apart from the detergent container while the cap is coupled to the detergent container with at least a portion of the cap guide being in the cover opening of the detergent container to cover the detergent inlet port, a sealing member configured to seal at least a portion of a space between the detergent container and the cap guide of the cap, and a rib to be disposed on a flow path formed between the cover opening and the cap guide.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is a continuation application is a continuation application, under 35 U.S.C. § 111 (a), of international application No. PCT / KR2024 / 000600, filed Jan. 12, 2024, which claims priority under 35 U. S. C. § 119 based on Korean application, 10-2023-0037590, filed Mar. 22, 2023, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates to a washing machine having a detergent supply device.BACKGROUND ART

[0003] A washing machine is a device that uses the driving force of a driving motor to stir together laundry, water, and detergent stored inside a tub so that washing is performed through mutual friction.

[0004] The cycles of performed by washing machine, regardless of the type of washing machine, may include a washing operation in which water and detergent are supplied to a tub containing laundry and the drum is rotated to wash the laundry, a rinsing operation in which water is supplied to the tub and the drum is rotated to rinse the laundry, and a spin-drying operation in which water is drained from the tub and the drum is rotated to remove water from the laundry.

[0005] The washing machine may include a detergent supply device to allow the detergent to be uniformly mixed with water supplied into the tub during a water supply process. In the case where the detergent is a liquid detergent, the liquid detergent may be directly supplied into the tub.

[0006] A detergent supply device may include a detergent pump. A detergent pump is configured to automatically draw a preset amount of detergent stored in a detergent container and supply it to the tub when the washing machine does the washing operation.DISCLOSURETechnical Problem

[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine capable of reducing the amount of detergent leaking to the outside from the detergent container.

[0008] An aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine capable of reducing variation in the amount of detergent supplied by the detergent supply at the same setting.

[0009] The technical objectives described herein are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned above may be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the following description.Technical Solution

[0010] A washing machine according to the spirit of the present disclosure includes a housing, a tub to be provided inside the housing, and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device comprises a detergent container including a detergent inlet port and a cover opening provided at a portion of a circumference of the detergent inlet port, a cap coupleable to and decoupleable from the detergent container, the cap including a cap guide spaced apart from the detergent container while the cap is coupled to the detergent container with at least a portion of the cap guide being in the cover opening of the detergent container to cover the detergent inlet port, a sealing member configured to seal at least a portion of a space between the detergent container and the cap guide of the cap, and a rib to be disposed on a flow path formed between the cover opening and the cap guide.

[0011] A washing machine according to the spirit of the present disclosure includes a housing, a tub to be provided inside the housing, and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device includes a detergent container including a detergent inlet port and a cover opening at a portion of the circumference of the detergent inlet port, a cap coupleable to and decoupleable from the detergent container, the cap including a cap guide positioned to be spaced apart from the cover opening along a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port while the cap is coupled to the detergent container with at least a portion of the cap guide being in the cover opening of the detergent container to cover the detergent inlet port and provided to be spaced apart from the detergent container, a sealing member configured to seal between the detergent container and the cap, and a detergent pump configured to pump detergent in the detergent container to the tub.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A′ of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates the washing machine of an embodiment with the detergent container withdrawn.

[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates the detergent supply device of the washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of some configurations of the detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 4 according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates the detergent container according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of portion C in FIG. 5 according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates the detergent container cover according to an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 10 illustrates the cap according to an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion in which a detergent inlet port of the detergent container according to an embodiment is located.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D′ of FIG. 11 according to an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E′ of FIG. 11 according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of portion G in FIG. 11 according to an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F-F′ of FIG. 11 according to an embodiment.MODE FOR INVENTION

[0027] Embodiments described in the disclosure and configurations shown in the drawings are merely examples of the embodiments of the disclosure, and may be modified in various different ways at the time of filing of the present application to replace the embodiments and drawings of the disclosure.

[0028] Regarding the description of figures, similar reference signs may be used for similar or related components.

[0029] The singular forms “a,”“an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] In this document, phrases such as “A or B,”“at least one of A and B,”“at least one of A or B,”“A, B, or C,”“at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” are intended to encompass any one of the listed items, or any possible combination thereof.

[0031] The term “and / or” includes any one or more of the associated items, or a combination of two or more of them.

[0032] The terms “first,”“second,”“primary,”“secondary,” and the like are used merely to distinguish one element from another and do not imply any other aspect (e.g. order, importance, or preference.)

[0033] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0034] As used in this disclosure, the terms “including,”“having,” and similar expressions are intended to specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or components.

[0035] When a component is described as being “connected,”“coupled,”“supported,” or “in contact” with another component, such language should be interpreted to include both direct and indirect relationships. That is, the components may be directly engaged or may be engaged via one or more intermediate components.

[0036] When a component is described as being “on” another component, this includes cases where the component is directly in contact with the other component, as well as cases where another component exists in between.

[0037] The washing machine according to various embodiments may perform washing, rinsing, dehydrating, and drying operations. The washing machine is an example of a laundry treatment apparatus, and the term “laundry treatment apparatus” encompasses a device for washing laundry (items to be washed or dried), a device for drying laundry, and a device capable of performing both washing and drying.

[0038] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for loading or unloading laundry is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which the laundry inlet is provided to face forward. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine having a loading method other than the top-loading and front-loading types.

[0039] In a top-loading washing machine, laundry may be washed using a water flow generated by a rotating member such as a pulsator. In a front-loading washing machine, laundry may be washed by repeatedly lifting and dropping the laundry through the rotation of a drum. The front-loading washing machine may include a combination washing and drying machine capable of drying laundry stored inside the drum. The combination washing and drying machine may include a hot-air supply unit for supplying hot air into the drum and a condensing unit for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. For example, the combination washing and drying machine may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may also include a washing machine that uses a washing method other than the aforementioned methods.

[0040] Hereinafter, a washing machine according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a washing machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line A-A′ of FIG. 1.

[0042] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a washing machine 1 according to various embodiments may include a housing 10 that stores various components therein. The housing 10 may be provided in the form of a box having a laundry inlet 13 formed on one side.

[0043] The housing 10 may include a cabinet 11 having a box-like shape. The cabinet 11 may include a front panel 11a, a rear panel 11b, a left panel, a right side panel 11d, and a bottom panel 11e.

[0044] The housing 10 may include a top cover 12 coupled to an upper portion of the cabinet 11. The top cover 12 may be provided with the laundry inlet 13 through which laundry may be introduced into a drum 30.

[0045] The washing machine 1 may include a door 15 configured to open and close the laundry inlet 13. The door 15 may be rotatably mounted to the housing 10 by a hinge. At least a portion of the door 15 may be formed transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing 10 to be visible.

[0046] The washing machine 1 may include a tub 20 provided inside the housing 10 to store water. The tub 20 may have a substantially cylindrical shape having a tub opening 23 formed at one side thereof, and may be disposed inside the housing 10 such that the tub opening 23 is arranged corresponding to the laundry inlet 13.

[0047] A drain hole 21 may be formed at a lower portion of the tub 20 to discharge water stored in the tub 20 to an outside.

[0048] The tub 20 may be connected to the housing 10 through a damper 26. The damper 26 may absorb vibrations generated by rotation of the drum 30 to dampen vibrations transmitted to the housing 10.

[0049] The washing machine 1 may include the drum 30 configured to store laundry.

[0050] The drum 30 may be disposed inside the tub 20 such that a drum opening 33 formed at one side of the drum 30 corresponds to the laundry inlet 13 and the tub opening 23. Laundry may be inserted into or withdrawn from the drum 30 by passing sequentially through the laundry inlet 13, the tub opening 23, and the drum opening 33.

[0051] The drum 30 may perform washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying operations while rotating inside the tub 20. A plurality of through-holes 34 may be formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum 30 to allow the water stored in the tub 20 to flow into or out of the drum 30.

[0052] A balancing unit 31 may be provided at an upper portion of the drum 30 to compensate for an unbalanced load caused by the laundry. The balancing unit 31 may include a housing having an annular channel and a mass, such as balls or fluid, movably provided in the channel, and the balls or fluid may move in response to the rotation of the drum 30 to offset load imbalance of the drum 30.

[0053] The washing machine 1 may include a pulsator 40 rotatably provided inside the drum 30 to generate a washing water current. The pulsator 40 may be rotatably provided at a lower portion of the drum 30 and configured to generate a washing water current. Laundry may be washed by the water current generated by the pulsator 40.

[0054] The washing machine 1 may include a driving device 50 configured to rotate the drum 30 and the pulsator 40. The driving device 50 may include a driving motor 51 and a rotating shaft 52 configured to transmit a driving force generated by the driving motor 51 to the drum 30. The rotating shaft 52 may pass through the tub 20 and be connected to the drum 30.

[0055] Specifically, the driving device 50 may include a driving motor 51 which converts electric energy into mechanical rotational force. The driving motor 51 may include a fixed stator 51a and a rotor 51b that rotates by electromagnetically interacting with the stator 51a.

[0056] The driving device 50 may include a rotating shaft 52 configured to transmit the driving force of the driving motor 51 to the drum 30, a pulsator shaft 58 configured to transmit the driving force of the driving motor 51 to the pulsator40, and a clutch device 53 configured to selectively connect or disconnect the driving motor 51 and the rotating shaft 52.

[0057] The rotating shaft 52 may include a hollow portion, and the pulsator shaft 58 may be disposed within the hollow portion of the rotating shaft 52. The pulsator shaft 58 may remain connected to the rotor 51b of the driving motor 51, and the rotating shaft 52 may be connected to or disconnected from the rotor 51b by the clutch device 53.

[0058] When the clutch device 53 disconnects the rotating shaft 52 from the driving motor 51, only the pulsator shaft 58 receives the driving force, thereby rotating only the pulsator 40, and when the clutch device 53 connects the rotating shaft 52 to the driving motor 51, both the rotating shaft 52 and the pulsator shaft 58 receive the driving force, thereby rotating the drum 30 and the pulsator 40 simultaneously.

[0059] When only the pulsator 40 rotates, a washing water current may be generated by the rotation of the pulsator 40, and the laundry may be washed as it rotates along with the generated water current and rubs against the drum 30. When the pulsator 40 and the drum 30 rotate simultaneously, the laundry inside the drum 30 is rotated and moisture in the laundry may be separated by centrifugal force, thereby performing the spin-drying operation.

[0060] The clutch device 53 may include an actuator 54 configured to generate a driving force for power switching, a rod 55 that linearly moves in response to the operation of the actuator 54, a lever 56 pivotally connected to the rod 55, and a coupling 57 coupled to a spin-drying shaft 59 to move up and down according to the operation of the lever 56. When the coupling 57 moves downward, it may be connected to the rotor 52, thereby allowing the driving force of the motor 50 to be transmitted to the dehydration shaft 59. Conversely, when the coupling 57 moves upward, it may be separated from the rotor 52, thereby preventing the driving force of the motor 50 from being transmitted to the spin-drying shaft 59.

[0061] The driving device 50 may perform various operations such as washing, rinsing, spin-drying, or drying by rotating the drum 30 and / or the pulsator 40 in a forward or reverse direction.

[0062] The washing machine 1 may include a water supply device 60 configured to supply water to the tub 20. The water supply device 60 may include a water supply pipe 61 and a water supply valve 62 provided on the water supply pipe 61. The water supply pipe 61 may be connected to an external water source, and may extend from the external water source to the detergent supply device 100 and / or the tub 20. Water may be supplied to the tub 20 via the detergent supply device 100, or may be supplied directly to the tub 20 without passing through the detergent supply device 100.

[0063] The water supply valve 62 may open or close the water supply pipe 61 in response to an electrical signal from a controller. The water supply valve 62 may allow or block water from being supplied from the external water source to the tub 20. For example, the water supply valve 62 may include a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0064] The washing machine 1 may include the detergent supply device 100 configured to supply detergent to the tub 20. The detergent supply device 100 may include a manual detergent supply device, in which a user inputs detergent for each wash cycle, and / or an automatic detergent supply device configured to store a large amount of detergent and automatically dispense a predetermined amount during a wash cycle. The detergent supply device 100 may include a detergent container 110 configured to store detergent. The detergent supply device 100 may be configured to supply detergent into the tub 20 during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe 61 may pass through the detergent supply device 100 and be mixed with detergent. The water mixed with detergent may then be supplied into the tub 20. The term “detergent” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, pre-wash detergent, main-wash detergent, fabric softener, and bleach. The detergent container 110 may be partitioned into a pre-wash detergent storage region, a main-wash detergent storage region, a fabric softener storage region, and a bleach storage region.

[0065] The washing machine 1 may include a drainage device 70 configured to discharge water stored in the tub 20 to the outside. The drainage device 70 may include a drain pipe 71 extending from the lower portion of the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10, a drain valve 72 provided on the drain pipe 71 to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe 71. The pump may pump water in the drain pipe 71 to the outside of the housing 10. In some cases, the pump may be omitted.

[0066] The washing machine 1 may include a control panel 14 disposed on one side of the housing 10. The control panel 14 may be provided on the top cover 12 of the housing 10. The control panel 14 may provide a user interface for interaction between the user and the washing machine 1. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0067] The at least one input interface may convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals.

[0068] The at least input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin-dry button. The at least input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, push switch, slide switch, toggle switch, micro switch, touch switch, touch pad, touch screen, jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0069] The at least one output interface may output operation-related information to the user visually or audibly.

[0070] For example, the at least output interface may provide information about the selected washing course, remaining time, and wash / rinse / spin-dry settings. Such information may be output through a screen, indicator, or audio. The output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, and / or a speaker.

[0071] The washing machine 1 may include a communication module configured to communicate with an external device via wired and / or wireless communication.

[0072] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0073] The communication module may transmit data to or receive data from an external device, such as a server, a user terminal, and / or another home appliance. For example, the communication module may establish communication with a server and / or a user terminal, and / or another appliance and perform data transmission / reception therewith.

[0074] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel with an external device, and communication over the established channel. According to an embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module—such as a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module—and / or a wired communication module—such as a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module. The applicable communication module may communicate with external devices via a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct, or IrDA (Infrared Data Association)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, 5G network, next-generation communication network, the Internet, or computer networks such as LAN or WAN). These various communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0075] The short-range communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication module, a Near Field Communication (NFC) module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication module, an ANT+ communication module, and a microwave (uWave) communication module.

[0076] The long-range communication module may include communication modules capable of various long-range communication protocols and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit may transmit and receive wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, or a server over a mobile communication network.

[0077] In an embodiment, the communication module may communicate with external devices such as a server, a user terminal, or another home appliance via a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN), to which the washing machine or the user terminal is connected, to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or the user terminal may be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN). The controller may control various components of the washing machine 1, such as the driving motor 51 and the water supply valve 62. The controller may control these components to perform at least one operation such as water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying in response to a user input. For example, the controller may control the driving motor 51 to adjust the rotation speed of the drum 30, or control the water supply valve 62 of the water supply device 60 to supply water into the tub 20.

[0078] The controller may include hardware such as a CPU and memory, and software such as control programs. For example, the controller may include at least one memory configured to store data such as algorithms and programs for controlling operations of the components of the washing machine 1 and at least one processor configured to perform the above-described operations using the data stored in the memory. The memory and the processor may be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be integrated into a single chip.

[0079] FIG. 3 illustrates the washing machine of an embodiment with the detergent container withdrawn. FIG. 4 illustrates the detergent supply device of a washing machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of some configurations of the detergent supply device according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ in FIG. 4.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, the detergent supply device 100 according to an embodiment may be provided inside the housing 10. The detergent supply device 100 may be coupled to the top cover 12 and may be connected to the water supply pipe 61 to receive water from an external water source.

[0081] The detergent supply device 100 may include a case 101 coupled to the top cover 12 and an inlet guide 102 coupled to the case 101 and configured to guide water into the case 101. A plurality of inlet guides 102 may be provided, where at least a portion receive cold water and at least another portion receive hot water.

[0082] The detergent supply device 100 may include a detergent container 105 configured to form detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 for storing detergent and / or fabric softener.

[0083] The detergent container 105 may include a detergent inlet port 121 through which a user may add detergent or fabric softener into the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2.

[0084] The detergent container 105 may be disposed on inner side of the case 101. The detergent container 105 may be disposed detachably from the case 101 at an interior of the case 101.

[0085] The detergent container 105 may be spaced apart from a bottom surface of the case 101 from the inner side of the case 101. Specifically, the detergent container body 110 may be disposed spaced apart from the bottom surface of the case 101 to form a space through which water and detergent may move.

[0086] The case 101 may include a case opening 103 at the front. The bottom surface of the case 101 may be inclined downward toward the case opening 103. Accordingly, water introduced through the inlet guide 102 and detergent supplied from a discharge portion 144 of the detergent pump 140 may move along the bottom surface of the case 101 and be supplied into the tub 20 through the case opening 103. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the detergent or water may be supplied into the tub 20 in various ways, such as through a drain hose communicating with the interior of the case 101.

[0087] The detergent container 105 may include a detergent container body 110 forming the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2, and a detergent container cover 120 covering the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2. The detergent container cover 120 may be coupled to the upper portion of the detergent container body 110 to cover the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2

[0088] The detergent container cover 120 may be detachably coupled to the upper portion of the detergent container body 110. Accordingly, the user may easily clean the detergent container 105 by separating the detergent container cover 120 and the detergent container body 110. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, the detergent container 105 may not be separated to the detergent container body 110 but be formed integrally. Hereinafter, for the ease of description, the detergent container 105 will be described as including both the detergent container body 110 and the detergent container cover 120.

[0089] The detergent container cover 120 may include a material different than the detergent container body 110. The detergent container cover 120 may include a more flexible material. The detergent container cover 120 may include low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

[0090] The detergent container body 110 may have the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 formed therein to store detergent. Specifically, the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 may be formed in a plurality, and the detergent container body 110 may be formed to partition the plurality of detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 from each other. At least one of the plurality of detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 may store detergent, and at least another one may store fabric softener. Accordingly, the user may supply both detergent and fabric softener into the tub 20 through a single detergent supply device 100, while the detergent and fabric softener are stored separately without mixing. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 may store only detergent or only fabric softener. Also, in contrast to what is shown in FIG. 5, three or more detergent storage spaces (not shown) may be formed inside the detergent container body 110.

[0091] The detergent container body 110 may be open at the top and include a bottom surface 112 and side walls 111 to define the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 therein. The detergent container body 110 may be integrally formed to include the bottom surface 112 and the side walls 111. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the walls that consist of the respective sides of the detergent container body 110 may be separately formed and assembled afterward.

[0092] The detergent container body 110 may be provided with detergent supply portion 114 configured to supply detergent from the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 to the detergent pump 140 side. Specifically, the detergent supply portion 114 may be in communication with the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 at one end and may have a detergent supply port 114a formed at the other end that may be in communication with the detergent pump 140. The detergent supply portion 114 may be coupled to an intake portion 141 of the detergent pump 140 at the end where the detergent supply portion 114a is formed. Accordingly, the detergent pump 140 may be in communication with the detergent container 105.

[0093] The detergent supply portion 114 may be formed in a plurality corresponding to the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2, and the intake portions 141 of the detergent pump 140 may also be formed in a plurality corresponding to the detergent storage spaces. However, the detergent supply portion 114 and the intake portions 141 of the detergent pump 140 are not limited thereto and may also be formed in a single unit.

[0094] The detergent supply portion 114 may be located at the rear side of the detergent container 105. Specifically, the detergent supply portion 114 may be disposed at the rear side of the detergent container body 110 and configured to pass through the rear surface thereof. The detergent pump 140 may be coupled to the detergent supply portion 114 at the rear side of the detergent container body 110 and connected to the detergent container 105. For example, the detergent supply portion 114 may be formed to penetrate the side of the detergent container body 110 or the upper side of the detergent container cover 120.

[0095] The detergent container 105 may include a detergent container valve 116 configured to open and close the detergent supply portion 114. The detergent container valve 116 may include an opening / closing member 117 for opening and closing the detergent supply portion 114, and a detergent container elastic member 118 for elastically supporting the opening / closing member 117.

[0096] When the detergent container 105 is withdrawn forwardly from the case 101, the opening / closing member 117 may move in a direction to close the detergent supply portion 114 by the elastic force of the detergent container elastic member 118. As the detergent supply portion 114 are closed, the detergent container 105 may prevent leakage of detergent stored therein.

[0097] When the detergent container 105 is inserted into the case 101, the opening / closing member 117 may move in a direction to open the detergent supply portion 114 by the detergent pump 140. The opening / closing member 117 may be pressed and moved by the intake portion 141 of the detergent pump 140. The detergent container elastic member 118 may be compressed. As the detergent supply portion 114 are opened, the detergent container 105 may communicate with the detergent pump 140 and supply detergent thereto.

[0098] A handle 119 may be provided at a front side of the detergent container body 110. Accordingly, the user may easily insert or withdraw the detergent container 105 using the handle 119. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the position of the handle 119 may vary. For example, the handle 119 may be provided at the front side of the detergent container cover 120.

[0099] The detergent container cover 120 may include a cover panel 122 coupled to the detergent container body 110 and configured to cover the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2. The cover panel 122 may engage with an upper side of the detergent container body 110 and cover an upper portion of the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2.

[0100] The cover panel 122 may include an upper surface disposed to face the bottom surface 112 of the detergent container body 110 and side surfaces to be coupled to the detergent container body 110. The cover panel 122 may be integrally formed with the upper surface and the side surfaces. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the walls forming each surface of the cover panel 122 may also be separately formed and then assembled.

[0101] The detergent container cover 120 may be provided with detergent inlet ports 121 through which detergent may be added. A user may add detergent or fabric softener into the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 through the detergent inlet ports 121. Specifically, the detergent inlet ports 121 may be formed in a plurality corresponding to the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2. Accordingly, the user may separately add detergent or fabric softener into each of the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 through the detergent inlet ports 121. However, the number of detergent inlet ports 121 is not limited thereto and may be singular corresponding to a single detergent storage space formed in the detergent container body 110.

[0102] The detergent inlet port 121 may be formed to have a substantially circular shape. The cap 130 may also be formed to have a substantially circular shape corresponding to the detergent inlet port 121. As both the detergent inlet port 121 and the cap 130 are circular, even when the cap 130 is rotated, the detergent inlet port 121 may be closed uniformly due to the constant radius from the center to the edge. Furthermore, the cap 130 may be stably supported during closing of the detergent inlet port 121. When the user rotates the cap 130 to open or close the detergent inlet port 121, rotation of the cap 130 may be facilitated by the circular shapes of both the detergent inlet port 121 and the cap 130. However, the shapes of the detergent inlet port 121 and the cap 130 are not limited to being circular and may be formed in various shapes.

[0103] The detergent container 105 may include the cap 130 that may open and close the detergent inlet port 121. Specifically, the cap 130 may be detachably coupled to detergent container cover 120 at the upper portion of the detergent container cover 120 and may open and close the detergent inlet port 121.

[0104] The cap 130 may be provided in plurality in response to the detergent inlet ports 121 being formed in multiple numbers. Accordingly, the plurality of caps 130 may each open and close each of the plurality of detergent inlet ports 121, and may open and close each of the plurality of detergent storage spaces S1 and S2. However, the number of caps 130 is not limited thereto and may correspond to the number of detergent inlet ports 121. A more detailed structure and function of the cap 130 will be described later.

[0105] The detergent container 105 may be configured to be withdrawn forward. Specifically, the detergent container 105 may be configured to be withdrawn forward from the case 101 fixed to the top cover 12 and inserted rearward. Accordingly, a user may conveniently withdraw the detergent container 105 as needed and add detergent or fabric softener into the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 through the detergent inlet ports 121. However, the detergent container 105 is not limited thereto and may be formed in different structures that allow a user to add detergent into the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2.

[0106] A detergent container guide 115 may be provided at the side wall 111 of the detergent container body 110 to guide the insertion and withdrawal of the detergent container 105. A guide rail (not shown) may be provided on the inner wall of the case 101 to correspond to the detergent container guide 115 of the detergent container body 110 such that movement of the detergent container guide 115 is guided. The detergent container guide 115 may be movably inserted into the guide rail, and accordingly, the detergent container body 110 may be stably inserted and withdrawn. However, the detergent container guide 115 may be formed in various structures for guiding the insertion and withdrawal of the detergent container 105. For example, the detergent container guide 115 may be formed on a side wall of the detergent container cover 120.

[0107] The detergent container 105 may include the handle 119 at the front. Accordingly, the user may more easily withdraw the detergent container 105 from the case 101 forward from the case 101.

[0108] The detergent supply device 100 may include the detergent pump 140. The detergent pump 140 may be configured to pump detergent from the detergent container 105 to the tub. The detergent pump 140 may be connected to the detergent container 105 and in communication with the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2.

[0109] By adjusting hydraulic pressure inside the detergent pump 140, detergent in the detergent container 105 may be supplied to the tub 20. When the hydraulic pressure inside the detergent pump 140 decreases, detergent from the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 may be moved into the detergent pump 140 through the intake portion 141. When the hydraulic pressure inside the detergent pump 140 increases, the detergent inside the detergent pump 140 may be discharged through the discharge portion 144 into the case 101, and supplied to the tub 20 through the case opening 103.

[0110] The detergent pump 140 may include a pump valve 146 configured to open and close the intake portion 141. The pump valve 146 may include a valve body 147 for opening and closing the intake portion 141, and a valve elastic member 148 for elastically supporting the valve body 147.

[0111] The valve body 147 may be elastically supported in a direction to close the intake portion 141 by the elastic force of the valve elastic member 148. While the valve body 147 closes the intake portion 141, detergent in the detergent container 105 may be prevented from being moved into the detergent pump 140.

[0112] As the detergent pump 140 operates, the valve body 147 may move in a direction to open the intake portion 141. The valve elastic member 148 may be compressed. As the valve body 147 opens the intake portion 141, detergent in the detergent container 105 may be moved into the detergent pump 140 through a pump inlet 141a of the intake portion 141.

[0113] The detergent pump 140 may include the discharge portion 144 configured to discharge the detergent in the detergent pump 140 toward the inside of the case 101. The discharge portion 144 may be selectively opened and closed according to the operation of the detergent pump 140. The discharge portion 144 may be formed to communicate with the inside of the case 101. Accordingly, when the discharge portion 144 is opened, the detergent in the detergent pump 140 may be discharged to the case 101, mixed with water inside the case 101, and supplied to the tub 20. However, the discharge portion 144 is not limited thereto and may be formed in various structures capable of supplying detergent directly to the tub 20. For example, the discharge portion 144 may be configured to supply detergent directly to the tub 20 without communicating with the inside of the case 101.

[0114] According to the configurations described above, the detergent supply device 100 of the washing machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may supply water delivered through the water supply pipe 61 and detergent or fabric softener stored in the detergent storage spaces S1 and S2 of the detergent container 105 to the inside of the tub 20.

[0115] However, when the detergent inlet port 121 of the detergent container 105 is closed by the cap 130, air may not flow between the inside and outside of the detergent container 105. In this case, when using the detergent pump 140 that supplies detergent using hydraulic pressure, the efficiency of detergent supply may decrease. Therefore, even when the detergent inlet port 121 is closed by the cap 130, the detergent container 105 may be configured to allow external air to flow into the inside of the detergent container 105.

[0116] Hereinafter, the structure of the detergent container 105, in which the cap 130 and the detergent inlet port 121 opened and closed by the cap 130 is formed, will be described.

[0117] FIG. 7 illustrates the detergent container according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of portion C in FIG. 5. FIG. 9 illustrates the lower portion of the detergent container cover according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 illustrates the cap according to an embodiment.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10, the detergent inlet port 121 may be formed on the detergent container cover 120. The detergent inlet port 121 may be covered by the cap 130.

[0119] The detergent container cover 120 may include a cover opening 123 formed on a portion of the circumference of the detergent inlet port 121. The cover opening 123 may be formed such that a portion of the circumference of the detergent inlet port 121 is extended outwardly in a radial direction. The cover opening 123 may be formed to extend outwardly from the outer circumference of the detergent inlet port 121 in the radial direction.

[0120] The cover opening 123 may allow insertion of a coupling protrusion 133 of the cap 130. While the cap 130 covers the detergent inlet port 121, the coupling protrusion 133 may pass through the cover opening 123. The cap 130 may be mounted to the detergent container 105 such that the coupling protrusion 133 passes through the cover opening 123, and then fixed to the detergent container 105 as the cap 130 is rotated relative to the detergent container 105.

[0121] The cover opening 123 may be configured to correspond to the coupling protrusion 133 of the cap 130. According to an embodiment, a plurality of coupling protrusions 133 and corresponding a plurality of cover openings 123 may be provided.

[0122] The cover opening 123 may form a portion of a flow path that connects the interior and the exterior of the detergent container 105 while the cap 130 covers the detergent inlet port 121. Through the cover opening 123, air from outside the detergent container 105 may flow into the interior of the detergent container 105, or air from the interior of the detergent container 105 may be discharged to the outside.

[0123] The detergent container 105 may include a detergent container sealing member 124 configured to seal at least a portion between the detergent container cover 120 and the cap 130. The detergent container sealing member 124 may be located on a cap support portion 125 facing the cap 130 of the detergent container cover 120. The detergent container sealing member 124 may extend along a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port 121.

[0124] In an example, the detergent container sealing member 124 may be integrally formed with the detergent container cover 120. The detergent container sealing member 124 may be in contact with at least a portion of the cap 130.

[0125] In various embodiments, the detergent container sealing member 124 may also be provided separately from the detergent container cover 120.

[0126] The detergent container cover 120 may include the cap support portion 125 configured to support at least a portion of the cap 130 in the direction of gravity while the cap 130 covers the detergent inlet port 121. In an example, the cap support portion 125 may include a plurality of surfaces. The plurality of surfaces of the cap support portion 125 may be formed to have stepped levels. At least a portion of the cap 130 may be supported by the detergent container sealing member 124 provided on the cap support portion 125.

[0127] The detergent container cover 120 may include a cover inner surface 128 configured to form a space on which the cap 130 is seated together with the cap support portion 125 while the cap 130 covers the detergent inlet port 121. The cover inner surface 128 may extend between the plurality of surfaces of the cap support portion 125. The cover inner surface 128 may extend in the circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port 121. While the cap 130 covers the detergent inlet port 121, the cap 130 may be seated in the space formed by the cap support portion 125 and the cover inner surface 128.

[0128] The detergent container cover 120 may include ribs 126 and 127 provided at the cover inner surface 128. The ribs 126 and 127 may be located near to the cover opening 123. The rib 126 and 127 may protrude from the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and may be positioned between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and an outer surface 138 of the cap 130.

[0129] The ribs 126 and 127 may include a first rib 126 positioned on a flow path P (see FIG. 14) between the cover opening 123 and a cap guide 131. The first rib 126 may be configured to narrow the flow path P formed between the cover opening 123 and the cap guide 131. The first rib 126 may be provided to obstruct the movement of detergent through the flow path P between the cover opening 123 and the cap guide 131. The first rib 126 may allow the flow of air through the flow path P between the cover opening 123 and the cap guide 131, while restricting the flow of detergent. A plurality of first ribs 126 may be provided.

[0130] The ribs 126 and 127 may include a second rib 127 located on the opposite side of the cover opening 123 from the side on which the first rib 126 is located. The second rib 127 may be configured to obstruct the movement of detergent discharged from the interior of the detergent container 105 through the cover opening 123. The second rib 127 may be configured to restrict the movement of detergent into the space between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the outer surface 138 of the cap 130.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 9, the detergent container cover 120 may include a blocking portion 129 provided on the outer circumference of the cover opening 123. The blocking portion 129 may be located inside the detergent container 105. The blocking portion 129 may extend downwardly from the bottom surface of the detergent container cover 120. The blocking portion 129 may be configured to prevent detergent from leaking outside the detergent container 105 through the cover opening 123 while the detergent container 105 is being moved. The blocking portion 129 may restrict the movement of detergent in the interior of the detergent container 105 toward the cover opening 123.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 10, the cap 130 may include the cap guide 131 configured to form a flow path for communication between the exterior and the interior of the detergent container 105 while the detergent inlet port 121 is closed. The cap guide 131 may be provided on a portion of the circumference of the cap 130 and may have a groove shape recessed into a portion of the circumferential surface of the cap 130. While the cap 130 covers the detergent inlet port 121, the cap guide 131 may form an opening spaced apart from the detergent container 105 through which air may flow. The cap guide 131 may be spaced apart from the detergent container sealing member 124.

[0133] A plurality of cap guides 131 may be provided. The cap guides 131 may be provided to correspond to the coupling protrusions 133 and may be positioned at a location corresponding to the coupling protrusions 133.

[0134] The cap 130 may include a support surface 135 configured to be supported in the direction of gravity by the detergent container cover 120 while the cap 130 closes the detergent inlet port 121. The support surface 135 may be oriented downward while the cap 130 covers the detergent inlet port 121. The support surface 135 may include a plurality of surfaces. The plurality of surfaces of the support surface 135 may be formed to have stepped levels. A portion of the support surface 135 may be in contact with the detergent container sealing member 124. A portion of the support surface 135 may be supported on the cap support portion 125 of the detergent container cover 120 via the detergent container sealing member 124.

[0135] The cap 130 may include the cap outer surface 138 facing the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120. The cap outer surface 138 may form an air-movable space together with the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120. The cap outer surface 138 may be spaced apart from the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120. The cap outer surface 138 may be spaced apart from and not in contact with the ribs 126 and 127.

[0136] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion in which a detergent inlet port of the detergent container according to an embodiment is located. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D′ of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E′ of FIG. 11. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of portion G in FIG. 11. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F-F′ of FIG. 11.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the cap 130 may be supported at least partially by the cap support portion 125 while covering the detergent inlet port 121. While the cap 130 covers the detergent inlet port 121, the detergent container sealing member 124 may seal the space between the detergent container cover 120 and the cap 130. At least a portion of the support surface 135 of the cap 130 may be supported on the cap support portion 125 via the detergent container sealing member 124.

[0138] In the region where the detergent container sealing member 124 is provided between the cap 130 and the detergent container cover 120, air inside the detergent container 105 may not be discharged to the outside of the detergent container 105, and air from outside the detergent container 105 may not flow into the inside of the detergent container 105. Furthermore, detergent stored in the detergent container 105 also may not be discharged to the outside through the region where the detergent container sealing member 124 is provided between the cap 130 and the detergent container cover 120.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 13, in the region where the cover opening 123 of the detergent container 105 is located, air inside the detergent container 105 may move into the space formed between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 of the cap 130. In the same region, air in the space between the cover inner surface 128 and the cap outer surface 138 may also move into the inside of the detergent container 105.

[0140] In the region where the cover opening 123 of the detergent container 105 is located, detergent in the detergent container 105 may also move into the space between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 of the cap 130.

[0141] However, in the region where the cover opening 123 of the detergent container 105 is located, since the detergent container sealing member 124 is provided between the cap 130 and the detergent container cover 120, air and / or detergent moved into the space formed between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 of the cap 130 through the cover opening 123 may be restricted from moving to the outside of the detergent container 105.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 14, air that has moved into the space formed between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 of the cap 130 through the cover opening 123 may move toward the cap guide 131 that is connected to the outside of the detergent container 105. The air that has moved into the space between the cover inner surface 128 and the cap outer surface 138 through the cap guide 131 may be introduced into the interior of the detergent container 105 via the cover opening 123.

[0143] The flow of detergent that has moved into the space between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 through the cover opening 123 may be redirected toward the cap guide 131. The flow of the detergent redirected toward the cap guide 131 may be restricted by the first rib 126. The first rib 126 may obstruct the flow of detergent that has moved into the space between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 of the cap 130.

[0144] The flow of detergent that has moved into the space between the cover inner surface 128 and the cap outer surface 138 through the cover opening 123 may be redirected in a direction opposite to the direction toward the cap guide 131. The flow of detergent redirected in the opposite direction may be restricted by the second rib 127. The second rib 127 may obstruct the flow of detergent that has moved into the space between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 of the cap 130.

[0145] The ribs 126 and 127 according to an embodiment, may allow the flow of air but restrict the flow of detergent in the space formed between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 of the cap 130.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 15, air that has moved into the space between the cover inner surface 128 and the cap outer surface 138 and has reached the cap guide 131 may be discharged to the outside of the detergent container 105 through a cap opening 131a. Air introduced into the detergent container 105 through the cap opening 131a may move into the space between the cover inner surface 128 of the detergent container cover 120 and the cap outer surface 138 of the cap 130 via the cap guide 131. In the region where the cap guide 131 is formed, air inside the detergent container 105 may be discharged to the outside, and air from outside may be introduced into the interior.

[0147] In the washing machine 1 according to various embodiments, since the cap opening 131a formed by the cover opening 123 and the cap guide 131 is arranged to be offset, the amount of detergent discharged through the cap opening 131a may be reduced, and air communication between the interior and exterior of the detergent container 105 may be ensured, thereby reducing a pressure drop inside the detergent container 105 caused by the operation of the detergent pump 140.

[0148] According to an embodiment, the washing machine 1 comprises the housing 10, the tub 20 to be provided inside the housing, and the detergent supply device 100 configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device comprises the detergent container 105 including the detergent inlet port 121 and the cover opening 123 provided at a portion of the circumference of the detergent inlet port, the cap 130 coupleable to and decoupleable from the detergent container, the cap including the cap guide 131 spaced apart from the detergent container while the cap is coupled to the detergent container with at least a portion of the cap guide being in the cover opening of the detergent container to cover the detergent inlet port, the sealing member 124 configured to seal at least a portion of a space between the detergent container and the cap guide of the cap, and a rib 126 to be disposed on a flow path P between the cover opening and the cap guide. In the washing machine 1 according to an embodiment, the amount of detergent discharged from the interior of the detergent container 105 to the outside may be reduced, and communication between the interior and the exterior of the detergent container 105 may be ensured, thereby reducing the pressure drop inside the detergent container 105 caused by operation of the detergent pump, and preventing the amount of detergent pumped by the detergent pump from being affected.

[0149] The cap guide may be spaced apart from the cover opening along a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port while the cap covers the detergent inlet port. In the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment, since the cover opening and the cap guide are located apart in the circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port, the amount of detergent discharged from the interior of the detergent container 105 to the outside may be reduced.

[0150] The cap may include a coupling protrusion 133 configured to pass through the cover opening while the cap opens and closes the detergent inlet port. In the washing machine 1 according to one embodiment, since the interior and the exterior of the detergent container 105 are brought into communication via the cover opening for the coupling protrusion 133, the structure may be simplified without additional components.

[0151] The rib may be located adjacent to the cover opening.

[0152] The rib may be a first rib. The detergent supply device comprises a second rib 127 disposed at a side of the cover opening opposite to a side on which the first rib is located in a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port.

[0153] The rib may be located between an inner surface of the detergent container and an outer surface of the cap.

[0154] The rib may be configured to interfere with the flow of fluid passing through a flow path (P) formed between the cover opening and the cap guide. The washing machine 1 according to one embodiment comprises the rib, such that airflow between the inside and outside of the detergent container 105 is permitted, while the flow of detergent is restricted.

[0155] The detergent container may include a detergent container body 110 forming a detergent storage space, and a detergent container cover 120 coupleable to and decoupleable from the detergent container body and comprising a material more flexible than the detergent container body.

[0156] The sealing member may be integrally formed with the detergent container.

[0157] The rib may be integrally formed with the detergent container.

[0158] The cap guide may be provided to be spaced apart from the sealing member.

[0159] The cap may include a cap opening to an outside of the detergent container while the cap guide is spaced apart from the sealing member. The washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may allow airflow between the inside and the outside of the detergent container 105, thereby reducing pressure drop inside the detergent container 105 due to the operation of the detergent pump 140.

[0160] The detergent container may include a blocking portion 129 extending along a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port inside the detergent container. The washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may include the blocking portion to prevent the flow of detergent toward the detergent inlet port 121, thereby reducing leakage of detergent from the detergent container 105.

[0161] The sealing member may extend along a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port at a radially outer side of the detergent inlet port. The washing machine 1 according to one embodiment may enhance the sealing effect to prevent leakage of detergent from the interior of the detergent container 105.

[0162] The cover opening may be arranged to be vertically offset from the cap guide while the cap covers the detergent inlet port.

[0163] The washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may include the housing 10, the tub 20 provided within the housing, and the detergent supply device 100 configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device may include: the detergent container 105 including the detergent inlet port 121 and the cover opening 123 provided at a portion of the circumference of the detergent inlet port, the cap 130 detachably mountable to the detergent container to cover the detergent inlet port, the cap including the cap guide 131 positioned to be spaced apart from the cover opening in a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port while covering the detergent inlet port and provided to be spaced apart from the detergent container, the sealing member 124 configured to seal between the detergent container and the cap, and the detergent pump 140 configured to pump detergent in the detergent container to the tub. The washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may reduce leakage of detergent from the interior of the detergent container 105 to the outside, and allow communication between the interior and the exterior of the detergent container 105, thereby reducing pressure drop caused by the operation of the detergent pump and preventing changes in the amount of detergent pumped.

[0164] The cap may include the coupling protrusion 133 configured to pass through the cover opening while opening and closing the detergent inlet port. The washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may be configured to communicate the interior and exterior of the detergent container 105 through the cover opening for the coupling protrusion 133, without requiring additional components, thereby simplifying the configuration.

[0165] The cap may include the cap opening 131a that allows communication between the inside and the outside of the detergent container as the cap guide is spaced apart from the sealing member. The washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may allow airflow between the interior and exterior of the detergent container 105 to reduce pressure drop inside the detergent container caused by the operation of the detergent pump 140.

[0166] The sealing member may be integrally formed with the detergent container.

[0167] The sealing member may extend in a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port from a position radially outward of the detergent inlet port.

[0168] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not explicitly stated may be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the following description.

[0169] Although a few embodiments of the disclosure have been shown and described, it would be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made in these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the disclosure, the scope of which is defined in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A washing machine comprising:a housing;a tub to be provided inside the housing; anda detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub,wherein the detergent supply device comprises:a detergent container including a detergent inlet port and a cover opening at a portion of a circumference of the detergent inlet port;a cap coupleable to and decoupleable from the detergent container, the cap including a cap guide spaced apart from the detergent container while the cap is coupled to the detergent container with at least a portion of the cap guide being in the cover opening of the detergent container to cover the detergent inlet port;a sealing member configured to seal at least a portion of a space between the detergent container and the cap guide of the cap; anda rib to be disposed on a flow path formed between the cover opening and the cap guide.

2. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the cap guide is spaced apart from the cover opening along a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port while the cap covers the detergent inlet port.

3. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the cap includes a coupling protrusion configured to pass through the cover opening while the cap opens and closes the detergent inlet port.

4. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the rib is located adjacent to the cover opening.

5. The washing machine of claim 4, whereinthe rib is a first rib, andthe detergent supply device comprises a second rib disposed at a side of the cover opening opposite to a side on which the first rib is located in a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port.

6. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the rib is located between an inner surface of the detergent container and an outer surface of the cap.

7. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the rib is configured to interfere with a flow of fluid through the flow path formed between the cover opening and the cap guide.

8. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the detergent container comprises:a detergent container body forming a detergent storage space, anda detergent container cover coupleable to and decoupleable from the detergent container body and including a material more flexible than the detergent container body.

9. The washing machine of claim 8,wherein the sealing member is integrally formed with the detergent container.

10. The washing machine of claim 8,wherein the rib is integrally formed with the detergent container.

11. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the cap guide is provided spaced apart from the sealing member.

12. The washing machine of claim 11,wherein the cap includes a cap opening to an outside of the detergent container while the cap guide is spaced apart from the sealing member.

13. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the detergent container includes a blocking portion extending along a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port inside the detergent container.

14. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the sealing member extends along a circumferential direction of the detergent inlet port at a radially outer side of the detergent inlet port.

15. The washing machine of claim 1,wherein the cover opening is arranged to be vertically offset from the cap guide while the cap covers the detergent inlet port.

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