Clothing care apparatus

Abstract

This clothing care apparatus comprises: a housing having a laundry inlet formed on the front surface thereof; a tub which is provided in the housing, stores water, and comprises a tub back forming the rear side of the tub; a drum which is rotatably provided in the tub and accommodates laundry; and a drying apparatus which is arranged above the tub and is for removing moisture from air discharged from the tub and supplying heated air to the tub, wherein the tub back comprises: a plurality of reinforcing ribs protruding rearward to reinforce rigidity of the tub back; and a tub duct in a partial area of the tub back, for guiding air discharged from the tub to the drying apparatus.

Description

Garment processing equipment

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a garment treatment device including a drying device.

[0002] A garment treatment device may refer to a device for treating and / or managing garments. The garment treatment device may include a washing machine and a dryer.

[0003] A washing machine is a device that uses the driving force of a motor to mix laundry, water, and detergent inside a tub, thereby washing them through friction between them.

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

[0005] The cycle performed by the washing machine may include a drying cycle in which heat generated by the drying device is blown into a space containing laundry to dry the laundry. The washing machine may include a drying device to perform the drying cycle.

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a garment treatment device having an improved structure to improve space utilization within the garment treatment device.

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a garment treatment device in which an exhaust path is integrally formed in a portion of a tub bag.

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a garment treatment device having an improved structure capable of reinforcing the rigidity of a tub.

[0009] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0010] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a clothing treatment device includes a housing including a laundry inlet formed on a front side, a tub provided in the housing for storing water, the tub including a tub back formed on a rear side of the tub, a drum rotatably provided in the tub for receiving laundry, and a drying device disposed on an upper portion of the tub for removing moisture from air discharged from the tub and supplying heated air to the tub, wherein the tub back includes a plurality of reinforcing ribs protruding rearwardly to reinforce rigidity of the tub back, and a tub duct for guiding air discharged from the tub to the drying device in a portion of the tub back, the tub duct including a tub exhaust port configured to discharge air inside the tub, and a recessed portion recessed forward more than rear ends of the plurality of reinforcing ribs.

[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a clothing treatment device further includes a housing including a laundry inlet formed on a front surface, a tub provided in the housing and configured to store water, the tub bag including a plurality of reinforcing ribs protruding rearward to reinforce rigidity of the tub bag, and a tub including a tub exhaust port formed in a portion of the tub back and configured to exhaust air inside the tub, and a tub duct provided around the tub exhaust port and including a recessed portion recessed forward relative to rear ends of the plurality of reinforcing ribs, a drum rotatably provided in the tub for receiving laundry, a drying device disposed on an upper portion of the tub and configured to remove moisture from air exhausted from the tub and supply heated air to the tub, and a duct cover provided to be coupled to the tub to form an exhaust path configured to guide air exhausted from the tub exhaust port to the drying device by covering the tub duct.

[0012] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part of a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of B of FIG. 3 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure from a direction different from the direction shown in FIG. 3.

[0018] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a partial configuration of a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a tub back according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a bearing housing inserted into the tub back of FIG. 7 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the bearing housing of FIG. 8 is inserted into the tub back of FIG. 7 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an exhaust path according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a state in which a tub back and a duct cover are combined according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are enlarged views illustrating a joint portion where the tub back and the duct cover are joined by cutting the tub of FIG. 11 along the line Z-Z' according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section and a housing of the garment treatment device of FIG. 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a cross-section of the garment treatment device of FIG. 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, taken at a different location from FIG. 14.

[0027] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a tub from the rear according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating a bearing housing configured to be inserted into the tub of FIG. 16 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0030] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar components.

[0031] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] In this document, each of the phrases "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" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0033] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0034] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0035] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0036] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0037] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0038] Throughout this disclosure, when we refer to a component as being "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0039] Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. A washing machine is an example of a clothing treatment device, and the term "clothing treatment device" encompasses devices that wash clothing (laundry items, drying items), devices that dry clothing, and devices that can perform both washing and drying of clothing. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0040] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include top-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet for loading or removing laundry is provided facing upward, or front-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet is provided facing forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines of other loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0041] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine with a dryer that can dry the laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine with a dryer may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. For example, the washing machine with a dryer may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine with a washing method other than the washing method described above.

[0042] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components therein. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet formed on one side.

[0043] A washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry compartment. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing to be viewed.

[0044] A washing machine may include a tub provided within a housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned within the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0045] The tub may be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated when the drum rotates, thereby reducing the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0046] A washing machine may include a drum configured to accommodate laundry.

[0047] The drum may be positioned within the tub such that the drum opening provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may be sequentially passed through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening to be accommodated within the drum or taken out from the drum.

[0048] The drum rotates within the tub and can perform each of the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration operations. The cylindrical wall of the drum is formed with a number of perforations, allowing water stored in the tub to flow into or out of the drum.

[0049] A washing machine may include a drive device configured to rotate a drum. The drive device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may be connected to the drum by penetrating the tub.

[0050] The driving device can rotate the drum forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0051] A washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to a tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided on the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub via the detergent supply device. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0052] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water source. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0053] A washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to a tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to add detergent for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically supplies a predetermined amount of detergent during a wash cycle. The detergent supply device may include a detergent compartment for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through a water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent compartment may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0054] A washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water in the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0055] The washing machine may include a control panel positioned on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for a user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0056] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0057] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0058] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0059] For example, at least one output interface may transmit information related to the washing cycle and operating time of the washing machine, as well as washing / rinsing / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0060] The washing machine may include a communication module including various communication circuits for communicating with external devices via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0061] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0062] The communication module can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance). For example, the communication module can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various data.

[0063] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with the external device via a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0064] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0065] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0066] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as a server, a user device, and other home appliances through a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or the user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or the user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine, such as a drive motor and a water inlet valve. The control unit can include various circuits configured to control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one cycle, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to a user input. For example, the control unit can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, or control the water inlet valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0067] The control unit may include hardware such as a CPU and / or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine, at least one memory for storing program-type data, and at least one processor for performing the aforementioned operations using data stored in the at least one memory. A processor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein, including in the claims, may include various processing circuits including at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processor is configured to individually and / or collectively perform the various functions described herein in a distributed manner. As used herein, when "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform various functions, these terms encompass, for example, without limitation, a situation where a single processor performs the functions recited. That is, some of the recited functions may be performed by different processor(s) and other functions may be performed by different processor(s), and also a situation where a single processor may perform all of the recited functions. Additionally, at least one processor may comprise a combination of processors that perform the various functions enumerated / disclosed, for example, in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions. The memory and the processor may each 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. Furthermore, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0068] Hereinafter, various embodiments of a garment treatment device will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. While a washing machine / dryer is described as an example of a garment treatment device, the concepts of the present disclosure are not limited to washing machines / dryers, and can be applied to various devices for treating and / or managing garments.

[0069] The directions of front, rear, upper, lower, left, and right are referred to uniformly throughout the specification based on the directions illustrated in the attached drawing, Fig. 1. Fig. 1 shows the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions that are perpendicular to each other, with the X-direction representing the front, the Y-direction representing the left, and the Z-direction representing the upper.

[0070] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part of a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of B of FIG. 3 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part of a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part of a garment treatment device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6 (including, for example, FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6), a garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be a washing machine and dryer. The garment treatment device (1) includes a housing (10) forming an exterior, a tub (20) for receiving water that can be used for a washing cycle or a rinsing cycle, a drum (30) for receiving laundry, and a driving motor (42) for rotating the drum (30).

[0072] The housing (10) may be provided in a roughly hexahedral shape. In other words, the housing (10) may be provided in a box shape. The housing (10) includes frames (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e), and for example, the frames (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e) may be configured as an upper frame (10a) forming the upper surface of the housing (10), a front frame (10b) and a rear frame (10c) forming the front and rear surfaces of the housing (10), a side frame (10d) connecting the front frame (10b) and the rear frame (10c) and forming the side surface and the lower surface of the housing (10), and a lower frame (10e).

[0073] A laundry inlet (14) for loading or withdrawing laundry into or from the inside of the drum (30) may be formed on the front frame (10b) of the housing (10). The laundry inlet (14) may be opened and closed by a door (13) installed on the front frame (10b) of the housing (10).

[0074] The garment treatment device (1) may include a door (13) for opening and closing the laundry inlet (14). The door (13) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (10) by a hinge. At least a portion of the door (13) may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing (10) to be visible. For example, the door (13) may include tempered glass.

[0075] The garment treatment device (1) may include a lower door (18) configured to allow access to the lower detergent supply device (95a). The garment treatment device (1) may include an upper door (19) configured to allow access to the upper detergent supply device (95b) and the filter (81).

[0076] A control panel (11) for controlling the operation of the garment treatment device (1) may be provided on the upper portion of the front frame (10b) of the housing (10). The control panel (11) may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the garment treatment device (1). The control panel (11) may be provided with an input unit for inputting the operation of the garment treatment device (1), and a display unit for displaying various types of information regarding the garment treatment device (1). For example, the control panel (11) may include a display panel capable of touch input. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the control panel may include input units and displays of various forms.

[0077] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a tub (20) provided inside the housing (10) to store water. The tub (20) is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be arranged inside the housing (10) so that the tub opening corresponds to the laundry inlet (14). The tub opening may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0078] The tub (20) may include a tub body (22a) corresponding to the side of the cylinder. The tub body (22a) may be provided in a cylindrical shape with the front and the back respectively open. The tub opening may be provided at the front of the tub body (22a). The tub opening may have a diameter similar to or smaller than the diameter of the tub body (22a). The tub (20) may include a tub back (200) forming the back of the tub (20). The tub back (200) may be provided at the rear (side) of the tub body (22a). The tub back (200) may be provided to cover the rear side of the tub body (22a). The tub back (200) may be provided to correspond in size and shape to the open back of the tub body (22a) so as to cover the open back of the tub body (22a). The tub back (200) may have a diameter similar to / corresponding to the diameter of the tub body (22a).

[0079] The tub (20) can be connected to the housing (10) by a damper (16). The damper (16) can absorb vibrations generated when the drum (30) rotates and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing (10).

[0080] The garment treatment device (1) may include a drum (30) configured to accommodate laundry. The drum (30) may be configured in a cylindrical shape. The drum (30) may be configured in a cylindrical shape. The drum (30) may be configured inside the housing (10).

[0081] The drum (30) may be configured to rotate by receiving power from a driving device (40). The driving device (40) that rotates the drum (30) will be described later.

[0082] The drum (30) can perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration process while rotating inside the tub (20). A plurality of holes (32a) are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum (30), so that water stored in the tub (20) can flow into the inside of the drum (30) or flow out from the outside of the drum (30).

[0083] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a water supply device (40) configured to supply water to the tub (20). The water supply device (90) may be arranged at the top of the tub (20). The water supply device (90) may be arranged at the rear of the drying device (70).

[0084] The clothes treatment device (1) may include a detergent supply device (95) for supplying detergent to the tub (20). The detergent supply device (95) may include an upper detergent supply device (95b) and a lower detergent supply device (95a). The upper detergent supply device (95b) may be arranged at the lower portion of the tub (20). The lower detergent supply device (95a) may be arranged at the upper portion of the tub (20). The term “detergent” may include, for example and without limitation, a pre-wash detergent, a main wash detergent, a fabric softener, a bleach, and the like.

[0085] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a drainage device (93) configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20) to the outside. The drainage device (93) may be arranged at the bottom of the tub (20). The drainage device (93) may include a drainage pump (93a) for discharging water inside the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10), a connection hose (93b) for connecting the tub (20) and the drainage pump (93a) so that water inside the tub (20) can flow into the drainage pump (93a), and a drainage hose for guiding water pumped by the drainage pump (93a) to the outside of the housing (10).

[0086] The tub (20) can be supported by a damper (16). The damper (16) can connect the lower frame (10e) of the housing (10) and the outer surface of the tub (20). In addition to the lower frame of the housing (10), the damper (16) can also be located on the upper side, left and right sides to support the tub (20).

[0087] A water supply device (90) for supplying washing water to the tub (20) may be placed on the upper part of the tub (20). The water supply device (90) may be placed at the rear of a drying device (e.g., including a heat pump module) (70).

[0088] The drum (30) may include a drum body (32), a drum front (31), and a drum back (34).

[0089] The drum body (32) may be formed into a hollow cylindrical shape with open front and rear ends. A plurality of holes (32a) are formed in the cylindrical drum body (32) so that water stored in the tub (20) can flow into the drum (30) or be discharged to the outside of the drum (30). At least one lifter (33) may be installed on the inner circumference of the drum body (32) so that laundry can rise and fall when the drum (30) rotates.

[0090] The drum front (31) can be placed at the front end of the drum body (32), and the drum back (34) can be placed at the rear end of the drum body (32).

[0091] A coupling hole (35) may be provided on the side of the drum body (32). A coupling hole (35) may be provided at the rear end of the drum body (32) so that a drum bag (34) can be coupled thereto. A plurality of coupling holes (35) may be formed. The coupling holes (35) are provided so as to fix a flange shaft (60) installed on the drum bag (34). The coupling holes (35) may be formed to correspond to the flange shaft (60). The coupling holes (35) may be formed to be spaced apart at regular intervals along the circumferential direction of the drum body (32) so as to correspond to the flange shaft (60).

[0092] The drum front (31) may be provided to correspond to the front opening of the drum body (32). The drum back (34) may be provided to correspond to the rear opening of the drum body (32).

[0093] The drum bag (34) may be formed in a circular shape so as to block the rear opening of the drum body (32). In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the drum bag (34) may be formed with a plurality of holes so that air can pass smoothly from the inside to the outside of the drum.

[0094] The garment treatment device (1) may include a driving device (40) configured to rotate a drum (30). The driving device (40) may include a driving motor (42) and a rotary shaft (41) connected to the drum (30) to transmit driving force generated by the driving motor (42) to the drum (30). A rotary shaft (41) for transmitting the power of the driving motor (42) is connected to a drum back (34) of the drum (30). The drum (30) is rotated within the tub (20) by the rotary force transmitted through the rotary shaft (41).

[0095] A driving motor (42) may be provided on the outside of the tub (20). The driving motor (42) may be connected to the drum (30) via a rotating shaft (41). The rotating shaft (41) passes through the tub back (200) of the tub (20) and is rotatably supported by a bearing (52) and a bearing housing (51).

[0096] The driving motor (42) may include a stator fixed to the outside of the tub back (200) and a rotor that is rotatably provided and connected to a rotating shaft (41). The rotor may electromagnetically interact with the stator to convert rotational electrical power into mechanical rotational power. The rotation of the rotor may be transmitted to the drum (30) through the rotating shaft (41).

[0097] The drum back (34) can be connected to a rotary shaft (41) via a flange shaft (60). The flange shaft (60) can be provided to transmit power from a driving motor (42).

[0098] The flange shaft (60) may include a hub portion (61) positioned at the center of the drum back (34) and a plurality of flange portions (62) extending radially from the hub portion (61). A shaft coupling portion (63) for installing a rotating shaft (41) may be formed at the center of the hub portion (61).

[0099] A plurality of flange portions (62) may be formed at approximately 120-degree intervals centered on the hub portion (61). The plurality of flange portions (62) may be formed to correspond to the diameter of the drum bag (34). A plurality of fastening holes (64) may be formed at one end of each flange portion (62). The plurality of fastening holes (64) may be formed to correspond to the coupling holes (35) of the drum (30). In one embodiment of the present invention, two fastening holes are formed in one flange portion, but the spirit of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the fastening holes may be provided in various numbers and arrangements depending on the size and shape of the drum and the flange portion.

[0100] A rotary shaft (41) is arranged between the drum (30) and the driving motor (42). One end of the rotary shaft (41) is connected to the drum back (34), and the other end of the rotary shaft (41) extends to the outside of the tub back (200). When the driving motor (42) rotates the rotary shaft (41), the drum (30) connected to the rotary shaft (41) rotates around the rotary shaft (41).

[0101] A bearing housing (51) is installed in the tub back (200) to rotatably support the rotating shaft (41). The bearing housing (51) may be made of an aluminum alloy. For example, the bearing housing (51) may be formed of aluminum die casting (ALDC). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the bearing housing (51) may also be formed of stainless steel. It is sufficient that the bearing housing (51) is formed of a material having a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20).

[0102] The bearing housing (51) can be inserted into the tub back (200) when injection molding the tub (20). For example, the tub (20) can be formed by inserting the bearing housing (51) into a mold (not shown) for forming the tub (20) and then injecting molten resin into the mold. Through this, the tub (20) with the bearing housing (51) inserted into the inside of the tub back (200) can be integrally formed.

[0103] Bearings (52, see, for example, FIG. 8) can be installed between the bearing housing (51) and the rotary shaft (41) so that the rotary shaft (41) can rotate smoothly.

[0104] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a drying device (70) for drying laundry accommodated inside the drum (30). The drying device (70) may be provided to heat air and supply it to the inside of the tub (20). The drying device (70) may be configured to dry and heat air discharged from the tub (20) and circulate the dried and heated air into the inside of the tub (20) to dry clothing inside the drum (30). The drying device (70) according to various embodiments may be arranged on the upper portion of the tub (20).

[0105] The drying device (70) may include a drying case (70a) in which a heat pump for drying air may be installed. The drying case (70a) may include a drying base (70b) and a drying cover (70c) that is coupled to the drying base (70b) to form a path through which air can move. The drying cover (70c) may cover the open upper surface of the drying base (70b).

[0106] A drying device (70) according to various embodiments may be configured as a heat pump. The drying device (70) may include a compressor (71), a condenser (72), an evaporator (73), an expansion valve, and a refrigerant pipe (75) for circulating refrigerant and exchanging heat. The compressor (71), condenser (72), evaporator (73), etc., including a heat pump, may be placed in a drying device case (70a). For example, the drying device (70) may be mounted on a clothing treatment device (1) as a single module.

[0107] The compressor (71) compresses the refrigerant, and the compressed high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant is transferred to the condenser (72). The condenser (72) can cool the refrigerant and heat the surrounding air. The heated air can be introduced into the drum (30) to dry the laundry.

[0108] The refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve can absorb heat in the evaporator (73) and cool the surrounding air. That is, the evaporator (73) can cool the high-temperature, humid air that has passed through the inside of the drum (30) and remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed passes through the condenser (72) and can be reheated while exchanging heat with the refrigerant in the condenser (72). That is, the condenser (72) can heat the air that has passed through the evaporator (73). The condenser (72) and the evaporator (73) can be referred to as a heat exchanger.

[0109] In addition, the drying device (70) may further include a heater (80) in addition to a heat pump to increase drying efficiency. However, the drying device (70) may also be configured as a heater type, including only a heater (80) rather than a heat pump type.

[0110] The heater (80) can heat the air introduced into the drying device (70). The heater (80) can be placed in the heating path (77). The heater (80) can be placed downstream of the condenser (72). In addition, the heater (80) can be provided in a small size so as to minimize / reduce the path resistance. For example, the heater (80) can be a sheath heater.

[0111] The drying device (70) may be provided with an inlet passage (76) into which air discharged from the tub (20) flows. The drying device (70) may be provided with a heating passage (77) for heat exchange with air flowing into the drying device (70) through the inlet passage (76). The drying device (70) may be provided with a supply passage (78) through which air that has passed through the heating passage (77) and has undergone heat exchange is supplied to the tub (20). The inlet passage (76) is provided so that air that has passed through the inside of the tub (20) can flow into the drying device (70). The inlet passage (76) may be arranged on the upper side of the tub (20). The inlet passage (76) may be communicated with an exhaust passage (P) formed at the rear of the tub (20).

[0112] The drying device (70) may include an inlet guide (76a) connected to the tub (20). The inlet guide (76a) may guide air discharged from the tub (20) to an inlet passage (76). The inlet passage (76) may be communicated with an exhaust passage (P) formed in the tub (20) through the inlet guide (76a). Air passing through the exhaust passage (P) may be introduced into the inlet passage (76) of the drying device (70) through the inlet guide (76a).

[0113] A filter (81) may be provided in the inlet passage (76) to filter out foreign substances such as lint contained in the air flowing in through the exhaust passage (P) from the tub (20). The air flowing in through the inlet passage (76) may flow to the heating passage (77) through the filter (81).

[0114] A condenser (72) and an evaporator (73) may be placed in the heating passage (77). The introduced air may be hot and humid as it has passed through the inside of the tub (20). The hot and humid air may be cooled in the evaporator (73) placed in the heating passage (77) to remove moisture. Thereafter, the air may be reheated by passing through the condenser (72).

[0115] The supply path (78) can supply heated air back into the tub (20) through the condenser (72). The supply path (78) is connected to the heating path (77) and can extend downward to discharge heated air toward the air inlet (26) of the tub (20).

[0116] The supply passage (78) may include a blower fan (78a) for causing air to flow into the tub (20). In one embodiment, the blower fan (78a) may be disposed in the supply passage (78). The blower fan (78a) may cause air from the heating passage (77) and the supply passage (78) to flow into the inside of the drum (30). For example, the blower fan (78a) may include a sirocco fan. The blower fan (78a) may include a sirocco fan.

[0117] According to one embodiment, a garment treatment device (1) may have a supply path (78) formed to allow air to move downward from below a blower fan (78a) disposed in front of a drying base (70b). The supply path (78) may extend downward from the blower fan (78a) to connect the blower fan (78a) and the air inlet (26) of the tub (20). The supply path (78) may extend downward from the blower fan (78a) to minimize / reduce the volume in the front-back direction. In other words, an increase in the volume of the garment treatment device (1) in the front-back direction due to the formation of the supply path (78) may be prevented, minimized, and / or reduced.

[0118] By the above configuration, air passing through the heating path (77) is introduced into the supply path (78) by the blower fan (78a), moves downward of the blower fan (78a) along the supply path (78), and can then be discharged into the tub (20) through the air inlet (26).

[0119] Referring to FIG. 3, a washing machine according to one embodiment may include a diaphragm (23) connecting the tub opening of the tub (20) and the laundry inlet (14) of the housing (10). The diaphragm (23) may connect the laundry inlet (14) and the tub opening. The diaphragm (23) may prevent and / or reduce / suppress laundry inserted into the laundry inlet (14) from falling between the housing (10) and the tub (20), and may function to connect the front end of the tub (20) and the housing (10) regardless of vibrations generated during the washing process. For this purpose, the diaphragm (23) may be formed of an elastic material. For example, the diaphragm (23) may include a plastic material such as rubber or TPE (Thermo Plastic Elastomer).

[0120] Referring to FIG. 4, in a washing machine according to one embodiment, a diaphragm (23) may include a duct portion (24) that is provided to be connected to a supply duct (78b) forming a supply path (78). The duct portion (24) may extend upward from a side surface of the diaphragm (23) having a cylindrical shape with both sides open. A path may be formed inside the duct portion (24) so ​​that air may flow. The duct portion (24) may be formed adjacent to the upper end of the diaphragm (23). The duct portion (24) may be formed integrally with the diaphragm (23) and may have the same material. Alternatively, the duct portion (24) may be provided separately from the diaphragm (23) and coupled to the diaphragm (23). Additionally, the duct section (24) may be provided separately from the diaphragm (23) and the tub (20) and may be combined with the tub (20). The duct section (24) may also be formed integrally with the tub (20).

[0121] An opening (24a) may be formed at one end of the duct portion (24). The opening (24a) may point to the air inlet (26) described above. An outlet (78c) may be formed at one end of the supply duct (78b) forming the supply path (78). The opening (24a) and the outlet (78c) may have corresponding sizes and shapes. When the duct portion (24) and the supply duct (78b) are connected, the opening (24a) and the outlet (78c) may point to substantially the same hole. When the duct portion (24) and the supply duct (78b) are connected, the opening (24a) and the outlet (78c) may each point to the air inlet (26).

[0122] The clothing treatment device (1) may include an exhaust passage (P) for allowing air discharged from the inside of the tub (20) to flow to the drying device (70). The air passing through the exhaust passage (P) may be arranged to flow to the inlet passage (76) of the drying device (70). For example, the exhaust passage (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20).

[0123] The exhaust path (P), the inlet path (76), the heating path (77), and the supply path (78) can circulate air into the interior of the tub (20) and the drying device (70).

[0124] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a clothing treatment device (1) may be arranged so that air discharged to the rear of a tub (20) is introduced into an inlet passage (76) of a drying device (70) located on the upper side of the tub (20) through an exhaust passage (P), and then sequentially passes through a heating passage (77) and a supply passage (78), and is then supplied back into the interior of the tub (20).

[0125] A tub exhaust port (220) may be formed in the tub back (200) so that air inside the tub (20) is discharged to the rear of the tub (20). Air discharged through the tub exhaust port (220) may flow along the exhaust path (P) to the inlet path (76).

[0126] In a garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment, an exhaust path (P) can be formed by combining a duct cover (100) with a tub back (200). The exhaust path (P) can be formed by combining a duct cover (100) with a tub duct (213) to be described below.

[0127] According to one embodiment, a tub back (200) may include a reinforcing rib (201) formed on the rear side of the tub back (200) (see, for example, FIG. 7) and a tub duct (213) formed on the rear side of the tub back (200). The front side of the tub back (200) may refer to one side of the tub back (200) that is disposed inside the tub (20), and the rear side of the tub back (200) may refer to the other side of the tub back (200) that is disposed outside the tub (20). In addition, the front side of the tub back (200) may refer to the inner side of the tub back (200), and the rear side of the tub back (200) may refer to the outer side of the tub back (200).

[0128] A reinforcing rib (201) may be formed to reinforce the rigidity of the tub back (200). The reinforcing rib (201) may protrude rearward from the rear of the tub back (200).

[0129] The tub duct (213) may include a recessed portion (210) and a partition rib (230). The recessed portion (210) may be formed at a periphery of the tub exhaust port (220) and may refer to a portion where the reinforcing rib (201) is not formed or a portion that is sunken forward from the rear end of the reinforcing rib (201). The recessed portion (210) may be formed to have a narrower front-to-rear width than a portion of the tub back (200) where the reinforcing rib (201) is formed. That is, the front-to-rear width of the recessed portion (210) may be smaller than the front-to-rear width of a portion where the reinforcing rib (201) is formed. Accordingly, the recessed portion (210) may be formed by the tub back (200) being sunken. In other words, the recessed portion (210) may have a stepped shape as a portion of the tub back (200). In addition, a part of the rear side of the tub back (200) where the reinforcing rib (201) is not formed may be referred to as a recessed portion (210). The partition rib (230) may refer to a protrusion formed along the periphery of the recessed portion (210). The partition rib (230) may protrude from the edge of the recessed portion (210) to the rear of the tub back (200). The partition rib (230) may form a side wall of the exhaust passage (P). The partition rib (230) may have a width in the front-back direction greater than or equal to that of the reinforcing rib (201). The width in the front-back direction of the partition rib (230) may be referred to as the height of the partition rib (230). The width in the front-back direction of the reinforcing rib (201) may be referred to as the height of the reinforcing rib (201).

[0130] The heated air in the drying device (70) can be introduced into the tub (20) and then supplied into the drum (30). At this time, it is necessary to secure an area where the heated air supplied into the drum (30) comes into contact with the laundry. The longer the distance and time that the heated air flows inside the drum (30), the more it can come into contact with the laundry. Therefore, the tub exhaust port (220) can be formed at a position opposite to the air inlet (26) through which the heated air in the drying device (70) is introduced into the tub (20).

[0131] The air inlet (26) through which heated air from the drying device (70) flows into the tub (20) and the tub exhaust port (220) through which air inside the tub (20) is discharged can be positioned as far apart as possible. For this purpose, the air inlet (26) and the tub exhaust port (220) can be positioned diagonally when looking at the tub (20) from the front or rear.

[0132] For example, if the air inlet (26) is formed at the upper front right of the tub (20) or at a position adjacent to the upper front right of the tub (20), the tub exhaust port (220) may be formed at the lower left of the tub back (200) or at a position adjacent to the lower left of the tub back (200). In this case, since the heated air moves from the upper front right of the tub (20) toward the lower left of the tub back (200), it may also move in a similar direction inside the drum (30) arranged inside the tub (20). That is, the heated air may move in a diagonal direction from the upper front right of the drum (30) toward the lower left of the rear of the drum (30). Through this, the movement path of the heated air inside the drum (30) may be made as long as possible. As the path of movement of the heated air becomes longer, the heated air can come into contact with the laundry inside the drum (30) over a wide area for a long time, and the drying efficiency of the clothing treatment device (1) can be improved.

[0133] However, without being limited thereto, the air inlet (26) and the tub exhaust port (220) may be provided at different locations depending on the area of ​​the air inlet (26) and the tub exhaust port (220) and / or the air volume of the blower fan (78a).

[0134] The exhaust passage (P) can be formed by the duct cover (100) covering one open side of the recessed portion (210). The exhaust passage (P) can be a single passage formed by the recessed portion (210) and the duct cover (100) together.

[0135] The duct cover (100) can be coupled to the tub back (200). The duct cover (100) can form an exhaust path (P) through which air discharged through the tub exhaust port (220) flows to the drying device (70). Specifically, the duct cover (100) can be coupled to cover an open side of a recessed portion (210) formed in the tub back (200). The manner in which the duct cover (100) is coupled to the tub back (200) will be described later.

[0136] The tub (20) may include a duct connection portion (270) that protrudes radially outward from the tub body (22a). For example, the duct connection portion (270) may protrude upward from the rear end of the tub body (22a). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the duct connection portion (270) may be positioned in various ways depending on the position of the drying device (70).

[0137] The duct connection (270) can connect the inlet guide (76a) of the drying device (70) and the tub duct (213). The duct connection (270) can form a part of the exhaust path (P) together with the recessed portion (210), the partition rib (230), and the duct cover (100).

[0138] The duct cover (100) can cover the tub duct (213) and the duct connection portion (270). The duct cover (100) can cover both the open side of the tub duct (213) and the open back side of the duct connection portion (270). The duct cover (100) covers the recessed portion (210) and the duct connection portion (270), thereby forming an exhaust path (P). Since the exhaust path (P) is connected to the inlet path (76), air introduced into the exhaust path (P) through the tub exhaust port (220) formed in the tub back (200) can move upward along the exhaust path (P) and be introduced into the drying device (70) through the inlet path (76).

[0139] Although not shown in the drawing, the duct connection portion (270) may be provided in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with only the upper surface through which air is discharged open and the rear surface not open. In this case, the duct cover (100) may cover only the tub duct (213).

[0140] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a tub bag according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a bearing housing inserted into the tub bag of FIG. 7 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the bearing housing of FIG. 8 inserted into the tub bag of FIG. 7 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a partial perspective cross-sectional view illustrating an exhaust path according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10 (e.g., FIGS. 7, 8, 9, and 10), the tub (20) may include a plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) formed in the tub back (200) to reinforce rigidity. At least a portion of the tub back (200) may not have the plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) formed, and a recessed portion (210) may be provided to form an exhaust passage (P).

[0142] The tub back (200) may have a tub penetration hole (240) formed in the center through which a rotating shaft (41) passes. The tub back (200) may have a tub exhaust port (220) formed on one side of the lower portion to which an exhaust path (P) is connected.

[0143] The heated air supplied into the tub (20) through the supply passage (78) flows into the drum (30), absorbs the moisture of the laundry contained in the drum (30), and becomes humid air, which is then discharged from the drum (30) and the tub (20). In this process, the heated air must be allowed to spread throughout the interior of the drum (30) so that the moisture of the laundry can be sufficiently removed and the drying efficiency can be improved. To this end, a passage connecting the front to the rear of the drum (30) must be secured, and a passage design that can reduce the amount of heated air discharged through the plurality of holes (32a) formed in the cylindrical drum body (32) before reaching the rear of the drum (30) is required. According to the present disclosure, a tub exhaust port (220) may be formed in the tub back (200) to increase the amount of heated air discharged to the rear of the drum (30).

[0144] By forming a tub exhaust port (220) in the tub back (200), heated air supplied to the air inlet (26) of the tub (20) can be discharged outside the tub (20) through the tub exhaust port (220). In order to send the humid air discharged from the tub (20) back to the drying device (70), a path connecting the tub back (200) to the drying device (70) is required. According to one embodiment, an exhaust path (P) may be provided to send the humid air discharged from the tub (20) back to the drying device (70).

[0145] Meanwhile, in order for the bearing housing (51) to be mounted on the tub back (200) and to withstand the pressure and load caused by the water stored in the tub (20), the tub back (200) must have sufficient rigidity. To this end, a plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) may be formed on the tub back (200). Since the reinforcing ribs (201) protrude rearward from the rear of the tub back (200), the thickness of the tub back (200) in the front-to-rear direction increases by the length by which the reinforcing ribs (201) protrude. In this structure, if a separate duct is mounted on the reinforcing ribs (201) of the tub back (200), the capacity inside the housing (10) must be secured by the size of the duct. In other words, the internal space of the housing (10) must also increase in the front-to-rear direction by the thickness of the duct separately mounted on the tub back (200) in the front-to-rear direction.

[0146] According to the present disclosure, a portion of the tub back (200) may not have a reinforcing rib (201) formed therein so that a portion of the tub back (200) can be utilized as a euro. When the length from the front of the tub back (200) to the rear end of the reinforcing rib (201) is referred to as the thickness of the tub back (200), a portion of the tub back (200) can be viewed as having a sunken shape. In the present disclosure, the recessed portion (210) formed in the tub back (200) may mean an area where the reinforcing rib (201) is not formed or an area that protrudes less than the reinforcing rib (201) and extends from the tub exhaust port (220) of the tub back (200) to the upper portion of the tub back (200).

[0147] A plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) may be formed at the rear of the tub back (200). The plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) may include annular reinforcing ribs (201a) and radial reinforcing ribs (201b). The annular ribs (201a) may have different radii centered on the tub penetration hole (240).

[0148] The radial ribs (201b) may extend radially from the tub through-hole (240). In addition, the radial ribs (201b) may extend through the annular ribs (201a). The plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) may reinforce the strength of the tub back (200). The plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) may include annular reinforcing ribs (201a) having a center coexisting with the center (C) of the tub through-hole (240). The annular reinforcing ribs (201a) may have different radii. The plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) may include radial reinforcing ribs (201b) extending radially from the tub through-hole (240). The radial reinforcing ribs (201b) may extend through the annular reinforcing ribs (201a).

[0149] The tub back (200) may include a partition rib (230) that protrudes from the edge of the recessed portion (210) toward the rear of the tub back (200) to partition a portion of the tub back (200) where the recessed portion (210) is formed and the remaining portion of the tub back (200). The partition rib (230) may be formed to surround the recessed portion (210). The partition rib (230) may be formed along the edge of the duct connection portion (270) as well as the edge of the recessed portion (210).

[0150] The height of the partition rib (230) may be set higher than the height of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (201). The height of the partition rib (230) being set higher than the height of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) may mean that the partition rib (230) protrudes more toward the rear of the tub back (200) than the plurality of reinforcing ribs (201) protrude toward the rear of the tub back (200). In other words, the partition rib (230) may protrude more toward the rear of the tub back (200) than the plurality of reinforcing ribs (201).

[0151] The compartment rib (230) may include an outer compartment rib (231), an inner compartment rib (232), and a connecting compartment rib (233).

[0152] The outer partition rib (231) may be arranged on one side of the tub exhaust port (220) in the radial direction of the tub back (200). The inner partition rib (232) may be arranged on the other side of the tub exhaust port (220) in the radial direction of the tub back (200). A connecting partition rib (233) may be provided to connect the outer partition rib (231) and the inner partition rib (232). The outer partition rib (231) may be arranged farther from the tub through hole (240) in the radial direction of the tub back (200) than the inner partition rib (232). Therefore, one side of the above-described tub exhaust port (220) may be referred to as the outer side of the tub exhaust port (220), and the other side of the above-described tub exhaust port (220) may be referred to as the inner side of the tub exhaust port (220).

[0153] The inner partition rib (232) may extend from the annular reinforcing rib (201a) to form a circular rib together with the annular reinforcing rib (201a). The outer partition rib (231) may be formed along the edge of the disc-shaped tub back (200). The outer partition rib (231) may be formed to protrude rearward from the rear edge of the tub back (200). As described above, the inner partition rib (232) may protrude rearward more than the annular reinforcing rib (201a) that forms a circular rib together with the inner partition rib (232). The outer partition rib (231) may protrude rearward of the tub back (200) such that the rear end of the outer partition rib (231) is positioned on the same plane as the rear end of the inner partition rib (232).

[0154] The tub back (200) may include a plurality of tab holes (2121) spaced apart along the partition rib (230). The plurality of tab holes (2121) may be formed on the outside of the recessed portion (210). The plurality of tab holes (2121) may be formed adjacent to each of the outer partition rib (231), the inner partition rib (232), and the connecting partition rib (233).

[0155] A duct cover (100) may be coupled to a plurality of tap holes (2121). The plurality of tap holes (2121) may be arranged at a predetermined interval from each other. The plurality of tap holes (2121) may be formed through tapping for fastening with screws. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and holes for fastening with rivets or the like may also be formed.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 7, a tub exhaust port (220) may be formed in the tub back (200) to discharge air inside the tub (20).

[0157] The tub exhaust port (220) may be formed in multiple pieces. The multiple tub exhaust ports (220) may be positioned spaced apart from each other. The multiple tub exhaust ports (220) may be positioned spaced apart along the recess portion (210).

[0158] The tub exhaust port (220) may include a first tub exhaust port (221) formed on the lower side of the recessed portion (210), a second tub exhaust port (222) formed above the first tub exhaust port (221), and a third tub exhaust port (223) formed above the second tub exhaust port.

[0159] The first tub exhaust port (221) may be formed at the lower side of the recessed portion (210). The first tub exhaust port (221) may include a drainage groove (221a) so that washing water is drained into the tub (20) without remaining therein. The drainage groove (221a) may be formed to be inclined toward the inside of the tub (20).

[0160] The second tub exhaust port (222) may be formed at a position spaced upward from the first tub exhaust port (221). Since the second tub exhaust port (222) is positioned so that there is a gap between it and the first tub exhaust port (221), the rigidity of the tub back (200) can be prevented / reduced and the air flow rate can be secured compared to when the second tub exhaust port (222) and the first tub exhaust port (221) are formed integrally.

[0161] The third tub exhaust port (223) may be formed at a position spaced upward from the second tub exhaust port (222). Similarly, the air flow rate can be secured while preventing / reducing the rigidity reduction of the tub back (200).

[0162] In addition, the first tub exhaust port (221) and the second tub exhaust port (222) may be positioned lower based on a horizontal line passing through the center (C) of the tub through hole (240) of the tub back (200). That is, the penetration area of ​​the tub exhaust port (220) may be formed to be larger on the lower side than on the upper side based on the center line of the through hole (240).

[0163] As described above, since the drying device (70) is placed on the upper part of the tub (20), the inlet passage (76) and the supply passage (78) can extend from the upper part of the tub (20). Accordingly, in order for the air discharged through the supply passage (78) to effectively contact the clothes inside the drum (30), it may be effective for the penetration area of ​​the tub exhaust port (220) to be formed larger on the lower side than on the upper side of the recessed portion (210).

[0164] That is, if the penetration area of ​​the tub exhaust port (220) is provided to be larger on the upper side than on the lower side of the recessed portion (210), the air circulating through the drying device (70) may be concentrated on the upper side of the drum (30). That is, the drying efficiency of laundry accommodated inside the drum (30) may decrease.

[0165] However, in order to secure sufficient flow rate, the tub exhaust port (220) may include an area formed above the center of the tub back (200). For example, the tub exhaust port (220) may include a third tub exhaust port (223) formed above the center of the tub back (200).

[0166] In addition, the distance between the first tub exhaust port (221), the second tub exhaust port (222), and the third tub exhaust port (223) may be set to a distance that can maintain the structural rigidity of the tub (20) and the tub back (200) while the second tub exhaust port (222) and the third tub exhaust port (223) are positioned as close as possible to the first tub exhaust port (221). In addition, the distance between the two may be set to a theoretical calculation value or an experimental value obtained through repeated experiments.

[0167] Although the present invention is illustrated with three tub exhaust ports (220), this is not a limitation. The shape and number of tub exhaust ports (220) may be provided in various forms. For example, the tub exhaust ports (220) may be formed by a dense arrangement of small holes, or may be formed in the form of a mesh or grille.

[0168] The tub (20) can be formed from a plastic material. The bearing housing (51) can be inserted into the tub back (200). That is, when the tub (20) is injection-molded, the bearing housing (51) can be injected while being inserted.

[0169] Referring to Fig. 8, the bearing housing (51) may include a material having a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20). The bearing housing (51) may be formed of aluminum die casting (ALDC) or stainless steel.

[0170] The bearing housing (51) can be inserted into the tub back (200) to reinforce the rigidity of the tub back (200). For example, the recess reinforcement portion (511) of the bearing housing (51) can reinforce the rigidity of the recess portion (210) of the tub back (200).

[0171] A tub back (200) may be formed with a tub through hole (240) through which a rotation shaft (41) of a driving motor (42) passes. A bearing (52) is inserted into the tub through hole (240), and the bearing (52) can rotatably support the rotation shaft (41).

[0172] The load caused by water and laundry contained inside the drum (30) is transmitted to the tub back (200) in which a tub penetration hole (240) is formed through the rotating shaft (41) and bearing (52). Since the tub back (200) is not strong enough to support the load, a bearing housing (51) may be provided on the inside of the tub back (200).

[0173] According to one embodiment, the bearing housing (51) may be provided in a disc shape having substantially the same diameter as the disc-shaped tub back (200).

[0174] In general, the bearing housing (51) may be provided with a size smaller than the diameter of the tub back (200), but the bearing housing (51) according to the present disclosure may be provided with a diameter equal to or similar to that of the tub back (200).

[0175] As described above, a tub exhaust port (220) may be formed in the tub back (200) to discharge air inside the tub (20), and a recessed portion (210) forming a tub duct (213) may be provided around the tub exhaust port (220) to ensure smooth air flow. However, the strength of the tub back (200) may be reduced due to the tub exhaust port (220) formed by penetrating the tub back (200) and the recessed portion (210) around the tub exhaust port (220) where the reinforcing rib (201) is not formed. To reinforce this, a bearing housing (51) according to one embodiment may be provided to have a diameter and shape that are substantially the same size as those of the tub back (200).

[0176] Air must be discharged through the tub exhaust port (220) located in the recess (210). The tub back (200) may include a tub exhaust port (220) formed to discharge air inside the tub (20). In addition, the bearing housing (51) may include a housing exhaust port (520).

[0177] The housing exhaust port (520) may be formed to correspond to the tub exhaust port (220). If the tub exhaust port (220) is formed in multiple numbers, the housing exhaust port (520) may also be formed in multiple numbers. That is, when the tub back (200) is injection-molded, the bearing housing (51) may be inserted into the tub back (200) so that the housing exhaust port (520) and the tub exhaust port (220) are positioned to overlap each other.

[0178] The housing exhaust port (520) may include a first housing exhaust port (521) corresponding to the first tub exhaust port (221). The first housing exhaust port (521) may be formed on the lower side of the recess reinforcement portion (511).

[0179] The first housing exhaust port (521) may be formed with a housing drainage groove (521a) corresponding to the tub drainage groove (221a) formed in the first tub exhaust port (221). Like the tub drainage groove (221a), the housing drainage groove (521a) may be formed to be inclined toward the inside of the tub (20).

[0180] The housing exhaust port (520) may include a second housing exhaust port (522) corresponding to the second tub exhaust port (222) and a third housing exhaust port (523) corresponding to the third tub exhaust port (223).

[0181] The second housing exhaust port (522) may be formed at a position spaced upward from the first housing exhaust port (521). In addition, the third housing exhaust port (523) may be formed at a position spaced upward from the second housing exhaust port (522).

[0182] Likewise, the recess reinforcement portion (511) of the bearing housing (51) can be formed to correspond to the recess portion (210) of the tub back (200). When the tub back (200) is injected, the bearing housing (51) can be inserted so that the recess reinforcement portion (511) and the recess portion (210) overlap each other.

[0183] The tub back (200) may include a step portion (211) for expanding the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage (P). The step portion (211) may be formed by a portion of the recess portion (210) being stepped forward relative to the remainder of the recess portion (210).

[0184] The front end of the recessed portion (210) and the duct connection portion (270) may be formed to be spaced apart in the front-rear direction. In other words, the front end of the duct connection portion (270), which forms a part of the exhaust passage (P), may be positioned forward of the recessed portion (210). The step portion (211) may extend obliquely from the recessed portion (210) toward the duct connection portion (270) so as to connect the front end of the recessed portion (210) and the duct connection portion (270). The step portion (211) may be formed to facilitate the flow of air on the downstream side of the exhaust passage (P) connected to the inlet passage (76).

[0185] The bearing housing (51) may include an avoidance portion (311) corresponding to the step portion (211). The avoidance portion (311) may be formed to avoid the bearing housing (51) being difficult to insert into a portion that is more sunken than the recess portion (210). The avoidance portion (311) may be formed in a portion of the recess reinforcement portion (310) corresponding to the step portion (211). The avoidance portion (311) may refer to a groove or hole having a shape corresponding to the step portion (211). Since the avoidance portion (311) is a groove or hole having a shape corresponding to the step portion (211), the bearing housing (51) may not be inserted into the inner side of the step portion (211). In other words, the bearing housing may not be formed in an area corresponding to the step portion (211) of the tub back (200). The bearing housing (51) may include an avoidance portion (510a) corresponding to the step portion (211). The avoidance portion (510a) may be formed to avoid the bearing housing (51) being difficult to insert into a portion that is more sunken than the recess portion (210). The avoidance portion (510a) may be formed in a portion of the recess reinforcement portion (511) corresponding to the step portion (211).

[0186] The recessed portion (210) and the duct connection portion (270) may be formed in a stepped manner. The stepped portion (211) may be formed by a portion of the recessed portion (210) adjacent to the duct connection portion (270) being sunken. The flow rate of the stepped portion (211) may be reduced due to the step formed between the exhaust path (P) and the duct connection portion (270). Therefore, the stepped portion (211) may be formed to secure the flow rate of air flowing to the duct connection portion (270).

[0187] The bearing housing (51) may include a plurality of housing ribs (510) corresponding to a plurality of ribs (201) formed in the tub back (200). The plurality of housing ribs (510) may be formed to correspond to a plurality of ribs (201) formed in the tub back (200).

[0188] A plurality of housing ribs (510) may be formed to correspond to the annular ribs (201a) including a plurality of ribs (201) and the radial ribs (201b). Since a plurality of ribs (201) are not formed in the portion forming the recess portion (210) of the tub back (200), a plurality of housing ribs (510) may not be formed in the recess reinforcement portion (511) of the bearing housing (51).

[0189] Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a state in which a tub back and a duct cover are coupled according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figs. 12 and 13 are enlarged views illustrating a joint portion where the tub back and the duct cover are coupled, taken along the line Z-Z' of the tub of Fig. 11 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0190] The duct cover (100) can be coupled to the tub back (200). The duct cover (100) can be coupled to cover the recessed portion (210) of the tub back (200).

[0191] The duct cover (100) may include a cover portion (120) formed to correspond to the recess portion (210) so as to cover the recess portion (210). The duct cover (100) may include a connecting portion (130) that is bent from the fastening flange portion (110) and connects the cover portion (120) and the flange portion (110).

[0192] The cover portion (120) may have a shape that protrudes outward from the fastening flange portion (110). When the duct cover (100) is coupled to the tub (20), the cover portion (120) may protrude in a direction away from the recess portion (210).

[0193] The connecting portion (130) may extend outward so that the cover portion (120) protrudes from the fastening flange portion (110). In other words, the cover portion (120) may be configured to extend rearward when the duct cover (100) is positioned to cover the recess portion (210), so that the connecting portion (130) extends rearward.

[0194] Although not shown, the duct cover (100) may be formed in a plate shape in which the cover portion (120) and the fastening flange portion (110) are formed integrally. The duct cover (100) is sufficient as long as it can cover the recess portion (210), and there is no limitation on its shape.

[0195] In this city, the duct cover (100) is described as being fastened to the tub back (200) via screws, but the method of fastening is not limited thereto. For example, the duct cover (100) may be fastened without a separate fastening means, such as a snap fit or latch.

[0196] The duct cover (100) may include a material having a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20). For example, the duct cover (100) may be formed of aluminum die casting (ALDC) or stainless steel, similar to the bearing housing (51). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient for the duct cover (100) to have a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20).

[0197] The duct cover (100) may include a fastening flange portion (110) in which fastening holes (110a) are formed. The fastening flange portion (110) may be provided with a plurality of fastening holes (110a). The plurality of fastening holes (110a) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the fastening flange portion (110).

[0198] Referring to Fig. 12, a plurality of fastening holes (110a) can be formed to correspond to a plurality of tab holes (2121a) formed in the tub back (200). The duct cover (100) and the tub back (200) can be fastened by inserting screws into the plurality of fastening holes (110a) and the plurality of tab holes (2121a).

[0199] Although not shown, a fastening structure may also be formed through tapping in the fastening portion (51a) of the bearing housing (51). A screw may be inserted through the tap hole (2121a) into the fastening portion (51a). That is, the duct cover (100) may be coupled to both the tub back (200) and the bearing housing (51).

[0200] In this case, the duct cover (100) can be combined with the tub back (200). Since the duct cover (100) has a higher strength than the tub back (200), the rigidity of the exhaust passage (P) can be secured. In addition, since the bearing housing (51) having a higher strength than the tub back (200) is inserted into the tub back (200), the same level of rigidity reinforcement as when the bearing housing (51) and the duct cover (100) of FIG. 12, which will be described later, are directly combined is possible.

[0201] Referring to FIG. 13, a coupling structure of an embodiment different from FIG. 12 is described.

[0202] The bearing housing (51) may include a fastening portion (51b) that protrudes through the tub back (200). For example, the fastening portion (51b) may protrude rearward through a fastening projection (2121b) formed in the tub back (200). That is, the fastening portion (51a) may protrude rearward by penetrating the fastening projection (2121b).

[0203] The fastening portion (51b) of the bearing housing (51) can have a fastening structure formed through tapping, similar to the tap hole (2121a) of Fig. 12. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a hole may be formed so that it can be joined through a rivet.

[0204] The fastening hole (110a) of the duct cover (100) and the fastening portion (51b) of the bearing housing (51) can be positioned to correspond to each other. When the fastening hole (110a) and the fastening portion (51b) are positioned to correspond to each other, a screw can be inserted.

[0205] The duct cover (100) may be formed of the same material as the bearing housing (51). For example, both the duct cover (100) and the bearing housing (51) may be formed of aluminum die casting (ALDC) or stainless steel. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient if the duct cover (100) and the bearing housing (51) are each formed of a material having a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20).

[0206] In this case, the duct cover (100) can be directly coupled to the bearing housing (51). By directly coupling the duct cover (100) and the bearing housing (51), the rigidity of the exhaust passage (P) can be reinforced. For example, if the duct cover (100) and the bearing housing (51) are formed of aluminum die casting (ALDC), the rigidity of the exhaust passage (P) can be reinforced, as it is similar to forming the exhaust passage (P) with aluminum die casting (ALDC).

[0207] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a section of the garment treatment device of FIG. 1 taken along line X-X' and a housing according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a section of the garment treatment device of FIG. 1 taken along line Y-Y' according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0208] Referring to Fig. 14, the tub (20) may be arranged to be inclined upwardly toward the front. That is, the opening of the tub (20) located on the opposite side to the tub back (200) may face upwardly toward the front. Accordingly, the tub back (200) may face downwardly toward the rear. In other words, it may be formed to be inclined with respect to the rear frame (10c) of the housing (10).

[0209] The distance between the rear frame (10c) and the tub back (200) may increase as the distance increases toward the lower side of the rear frame (10c). Conversely, the distance between the rear frame (10c) and the tub back (200) may decrease as the distance increases toward the upper side of the rear frame (10c).

[0210] If the duct cover (100) has a certain thickness, interference may occur with the upper side of the rear frame (10c) which is spaced a short distance from the rear frame (10c). In this case, noise, etc. may be generated due to vibrations generated during operation of the clothing treatment device (1).

[0211] To prevent / reduce this, the duct cover (100) may include a cover slope (122) formed so that the protruding length of the portion that is joined to the lower side of the tub back (200) is longer than that of the portion that is joined to the upper side of the tub back (200). The cover slope (122) may be formed only on a portion of the upper side of the duct cover (100).

[0212] For example, the cover slope (122) may be formed so that the length protruding rearward from the fastening flange portion (110) increases toward the lower side of the tub back (200) so as to be spaced apart from the rear frame (10c) of the housing (10) by a predetermined distance. That is, the length of the connection portion (130) extending rearward may be formed longer at the portion where it is coupled to the lower side of the tub back (200) than at the portion where it is coupled to the upper side of the tub back (200).

[0213] At this time, the exhaust passage (P) in the portion that is connected to the upper side of the tub back (200) may have a reduced cross-sectional area of ​​the passage, and thus, the flow rate may also decrease. To prevent this, the recessed portion (210) may include a stepped portion (211) formed on the upper side of the recessed portion (210). The stepped portion (211) may be formed adjacent to the duct connection portion (270).

[0214] The step portion (211) may be formed by recessing at least a portion of the recess portion (210) into the inside of the tub (20). That is, the step portion (211) may be formed by recessing forward from the upper side of the recess portion (210). However, the shape of the step portion (211) is not limited thereto, and may be formed like the flow path expansion portion (211A) illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, which will be described later.

[0215] Referring to Fig. 15, the housing (10) may include a rear recessed portion (10ca) in which a portion of the rear frame (10c) is recessed outwardly. In other words, the rear recessed portion (10ca) may protrude from the rear frame (10c) in a direction away from the duct cover (100). The rear recessed portion (10ca) may be formed to be spaced apart from a portion from which the rotation shaft (41) protrudes rearward. The rear recessed portion (10ca) may be a portion located at the rearmost position among the rear frame (10c).

[0216] The cover portion (120) of the duct cover (100) may be formed to be spaced apart from the rear frame (10c) of the housing (10) by a predetermined distance. Specifically, it may be formed to be spaced apart from the rear frame (10c) and the rear recess portion (10ca) of the housing (10) by a predetermined distance.

[0217] The duct cover (100) is positioned at the rear of the tub back (200), and thus can be adjacent to the rear frame (10c). The duct cover (100) can be formed with a short extension length of the connecting portion (130) connecting the cover portion (120) and the fastening flange portion (110) so as to be spaced apart from the rear frame (10c) by a predetermined distance. In other words, the duct cover (100) can be formed with a thin thickness.

[0218] However, if the duct cover (100) is formed to be thin, the amount of air flowing through the exhaust path (P) may decrease. To prevent this, it is necessary to secure the maximum thickness of the duct cover (100).

[0219] The cover portion (120) of the duct cover (100) may be formed to correspond to the rear frame (10c) and the rear recess portion (10ca). The cover portion (120) may be formed with a portion stepped so as to be spaced apart from the rear frame (10c) and the rear recess portion (10ca) by a predetermined distance.

[0220] The cover portion (120) may be formed to have a portion that protrudes toward the rear recess portion (10ca). A portion of the cover portion (120) corresponding to the rear recess portion (10ca) may protrude toward the rear recess portion (10ca). That is, the cover portion may be formed to have a step with respect to a portion of the rear frame (10e) other than the rear recess portion (10ca). However, the shape of the duct cover (100) is not limited thereto, and may be formed in any shape as long as it can be spaced apart from the rear frame (10e) by a predetermined distance.

[0221] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a tub from the rear according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating a bearing housing configured to be inserted into the tub of FIG. 16 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0222] Hereinafter, an embodiment different from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 15 will be described. Referring to FIGS. 16 to 17, another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail. The same components as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 14 are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof may not be repeated.

[0223] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the tub back (200A) may include a flow path expansion portion (211A) formed in a recess portion (210A). The flow path expansion portion (211A) may be formed on the upper side of the recess portion (210A). That is, the flow path expansion portion (211A) may be formed adjacent to the duct connection portion (270).

[0224] As described above, since the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage (P) may decrease at the portion adjacent to the duct connection (270), i.e., at the upper side of the tub back (200A), it is preferable that the passage expansion portion (211A) be formed at the upper side of the tub back (200A).

[0225] The euro expansion portion (211A) may be formed by cutting out a portion of the tub (20). For example, the euro expansion portion (211A) may be formed by cutting out a portion of the tub back (200A) and the tub body (22a).

[0226] The tub back (200A) may include a first tub exhaust port (221A) formed on the lower side of the recessed portion (210A) and a second tub exhaust port (222A) formed at a position spaced upward from the first tub exhaust port (221A). The tub (20A) of the present disclosure may be configured with two tub exhaust ports (220A).

[0227] A tub drain groove (221Aa) may be formed in the first tub exhaust port (221A) so that washing water is drained into the tub (20A) without remaining therein.

[0228] The bearing housing (51A) may include a first housing exhaust port (521A) corresponding to the first tub exhaust port (221A) and a second housing exhaust port (522A) corresponding to the second tub exhaust port (222A).

[0229] The first housing exhaust port (521A) may have a housing drainage groove (521Aa) formed to correspond to the tub drainage groove (221Aa) formed in the first tub exhaust port (221A). The flow path expansion portion (211A) may include a part of the tub exhaust port (220A) formed in the recess portion (210A) of the tub back (200A). That is, the flow path expansion portion (211A) may be formed across the tub back (200A) and the tub body (22a). The bearing housing (51A) may be formed to correspond to the shape of the tub back (200A). The bearing housing (51A) may include an avoidance portion (510aA) to correspond to the flow path expansion portion (211A).

[0230] The euro expansion portion (211A) may include a first portion euro expansion portion (211Aa) in which a portion of the recess portion (210A) is cut off, and a second portion euro expansion portion (211Ab) in which a portion of the tub body (22a) is cut off. The first portion euro expansion portion (211Aa) may perform the same function as the tub exhaust port (220). Since the bearing housing (51A) is not inserted into the tub body (22a), a shape corresponding to the second portion euro expansion portion (211Ab) may not be included.

[0231] In this city, it is shown that there are two tub exhaust ports (220A) and one flow expansion part (211A), but if two tub exhaust ports (220A) and one flow expansion part (211A) are configured, it can have an effect similar to that of three tub exhaust ports (220).

[0232] In this way, the cross-sectional area through which air can flow inside the tub (20) can be increased by the euro expansion portion (211A), so that the flow rate that can move through the duct connection portion (270) can be increased.

[0233] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device includes a housing (10) having a laundry inlet (14) formed on the front, a tub (20) provided within the housing for storing water, a drum (30) rotatably provided within the tub for receiving laundry, and a drying device (70) disposed above the tub for removing moisture from air discharged from the tub and supplying heated air to the tub, wherein the tub includes a tub back (200) provided at the rear of the tub and including a plurality of reinforcing ribs protruding rearward to reinforce the rigidity of the tub back, and a tub duct (213) for guiding air discharged from the tub to the drying device in a portion of the tub back, the tub duct (213) including a tub exhaust port (220) formed to discharge air within the tub and a recessed portion (210) recessed forward more than the rear ends of the plurality of reinforcing ribs. According to the present disclosure, space within a washing machine can be secured. According to the present disclosure, an exhaust path can be formed integrally with the tub back. According to the present disclosure, the rigidity of the tub in which the exhaust path is formed can be reinforced.

[0234] The tub may further include a bearing housing for rotatably supporting a rotating shaft connected to the drum and including a material having a higher strength than the tub. The bearing housing may include a recess reinforcement portion inserted into the recess portion to reinforce the strength of the recess portion, and a housing exhaust port corresponding to the tub exhaust port. The bearing housing may include a recess reinforcement portion corresponding to the recess portion. According to the present disclosure, the rigidity of the tub in which the exhaust passage is formed can be reinforced.

[0235] The tub may further include a duct cover (100) coupled to the tub to cover the tub duct and forming an exhaust path that guides air discharged through the tub exhaust port to the drying device by covering the tub duct.

[0236] The above duct cover may comprise a material having a higher strength than the above tub. According to the present disclosure, the rigidity of the exhaust passage may be increased.

[0237] The tub duct may include a partition rib (212) protruding from the edge of the recessed portion toward the rear of the tub back. The tub may include a plurality of tap holes (2121) provided in the duct rib so that the duct cover is coupled.

[0238] The bearing housing may include a fastening portion (51a) protruding through the tub. The duct cover may be coupled to the fastening portion of the bearing housing. According to the present disclosure, the bearing housing and the duct cover may be directly coupled.

[0239] The above tub may further include a duct connection (270) that connects the drying device and the tub duct.

[0240] The above duct cover may be provided to cover one open side of the above duct connection.

[0241] The above duct cover may include a fastening flange portion (110) in which a plurality of fastening holes are formed. The above duct cover may include a cover portion (120) that protrudes from the fastening flange portion in a direction away from the recess portion.

[0242] The housing may further include a rear frame and a rear recessed portion (10ca) protruding away from the duct cover from the rear frame. The cover portion may be formed to have a portion protruding toward the rear recessed portion. According to the present disclosure, interference between the duct cover and the housing can be prevented.

[0243] The tub may be arranged to slope upwards as it faces forward. The cover portion may include a cover slope (121) formed such that the length protruding from the fastening flange portion increases as it moves toward the lower side of the tub back, so as to be spaced apart from the rear frame of the housing by a predetermined distance. According to the present disclosure, interference between the duct cover and the housing can be prevented.

[0244] The above tub may further include a stepped portion (211) formed by recessing forward from the recess portion to expand the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage. According to the present disclosure, a decrease in the flow rate of the exhaust passage can be alleviated.

[0245] The above-mentioned step portion (211) may be formed by recessing at least a portion of the above-mentioned recess portion (210) into the inside of the tub. According to the present disclosure, a decrease in the flow rate of the exhaust passage can be alleviated.

[0246] The above tub may include a flow path enlargement portion formed by cutting at least a portion of the tub to enlarge the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust path. According to the present disclosure, a reduction in the flow rate of the exhaust path can be mitigated.

[0247] The above tub exhaust port may be formed in multiple pieces. The multiple tub exhaust ports may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

[0248] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device comprises a housing (10) having a laundry inlet (14) formed on the front, a tub (20) provided in the housing and configured to store water, the tub including a tub back (200) having a plurality of reinforcing ribs protruding rearward to reinforce the rigidity of the tub back, and a tub exhaust port (220) formed in a portion of the tub back to discharge air inside the tub, and a tub duct (213) provided around the tub exhaust port and including a recessed portion (210) that is sunken forward more than the rear end of the plurality of reinforcing ribs, a drum (30) rotatably provided in the tub to receive laundry, a drying device (70) disposed on the upper portion of the tub to remove moisture in air discharged from the tub and to supply heated air to the tub, and a tub duct formed in the tub to form an exhaust path (P) for allowing air discharged from the tub exhaust port to flow to the drying device by covering the tub duct. A duct cover (100) is further provided to be coupled. According to the present disclosure, space within the washing machine can be secured. According to the present disclosure, an exhaust path can be integrally formed with the tub back. According to the present disclosure, the rigidity of the tub in which the exhaust path is formed can be reinforced.

[0249] The tub may further include a bearing housing for rotatably supporting a rotating shaft connected to the drum and containing a material having a higher strength than the tub. The bearing housing may further include a recess reinforcement portion inserted into the recess portion to reinforce the strength of the recess portion, and a housing exhaust port corresponding to the tub exhaust port.

[0250] The above bearing housing may include a fastening portion (51a) protruding rearwardly through the tub back. The duct cover may be coupled to the fastening portion of the bearing housing.

[0251] The above duct cover may include a fastening flange portion (110) in which a plurality of fastening holes are formed, and a cover portion (120) that protrudes from the fastening flange portion in a direction away from the recess portion.

[0252] The above tub may further include a duct connection (270) provided to connect the tub duct and the drying device.

[0253] According to the present disclosure, space inside a washing machine can be secured.

[0254] According to the present disclosure, an exhaust path can be formed integrally with a tub back.

[0255] According to the present disclosure, the rigidity of a tub in which an exhaust path is formed can be reinforced.

[0256] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the present disclosure.

[0257] The above has illustrated and described specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and it will be understood that those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the principles and scope of the invention, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any embodiment(s) described herein can be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.

Claims

1. A housing including a laundry inlet on the front; A tub provided within the housing and configured to store water, the tub including a tub back forming the rear side of the tub; A drum rotatably provided inside the above tub and for accommodating laundry; A drying device is disposed on the upper part of the tub, and is configured to remove moisture from air discharged from the tub and supply heated air to the tub; The above tub bag is, A plurality of reinforcing ribs protruding rearwardly to reinforce the rigidity of the above tub back, and A garment treatment device comprising a tub duct for guiding air discharged from the tub to the drying device in a portion of the tub back, the tub duct including a tub exhaust port configured to discharge air inside the tub, and a tub duct including a recessed portion sunken forward more than the rear ends of the plurality of reinforcing ribs.

2. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a bearing housing for rotatably supporting a rotating shaft connected to the drum, the bearing housing including a material having a higher strength than the material of the tub; A clothing treatment device in which the bearing housing includes a recess reinforcement portion inserted into the recess portion and configured to reinforce the strength of the recess portion, and a housing exhaust port corresponding to the tub exhaust port.

3. In paragraph 2, A clothes treatment device further comprising a duct cover coupled to the tub to cover the tub duct, and forming an exhaust path that guides air discharged through the tub exhaust port to the drying device by covering the tub duct.

4. In paragraph 3, A clothes treatment device wherein the above duct cover comprises a material having a higher strength than the material of the above tub.

5. In paragraph 3, The above tub duct is a partition rib that protrudes from the edge of the recessed portion toward the rear of the tub back; and A garment treatment device comprising a plurality of tap holes provided along the above-mentioned partition rib and configured to allow the above-mentioned duct cover to be coupled thereto.

6. In paragraph 3, The above bearing housing includes a fastening portion protruding through the tub back, A garment treatment device in which the above duct cover is connected to the fastening portion of the above bearing housing.

7. In paragraph 3, A clothes treatment device wherein the tub further includes a duct connection connecting the drying device and the tub duct.

8. In paragraph 7, A clothing treatment device in which the above duct cover is provided to cover an open side of the above duct connection.

9. In paragraph 3, The above duct cover, A fastening flange portion in which a plurality of fastening holes are formed; and A garment treatment device including a cover portion protruding away from the recess portion from the above-mentioned fastening flange portion.

10. In paragraph 9, The housing includes a rear frame and a rear recessed portion protruding away from the duct cover from the rear frame, A clothing treatment device wherein the cover portion includes a portion protruding toward the rear recessed portion.

11. In paragraph 9, The above tub is arranged so that it slopes upwards as it faces forward. A garment treatment device including a cover slope portion configured such that the length protruding from the fastening flange portion increases toward the lower side of the tub back so as to be spaced apart from the rear frame of the housing by a certain distance.

12. In paragraph 11, A clothing treatment device in which the tub further includes a stepped portion formed by recessing forward from the recess portion to expand the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust path.

13. In paragraph 12, A clothing treatment device in which the step portion includes at least a portion of the recess portion being sunken into the inside of the tub.

14. In paragraph 3, A clothing treatment device, wherein the tub includes a passage expansion portion formed by at least a cut portion of the tub to expand the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage.

15. In paragraph 1, The above tub exhaust port is formed in multiple pieces, A clothes treatment device in which the above plurality of tub exhaust ports are arranged spaced apart from each other.

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