Clothes treatment apparatus

Abstract

This clothes treatment apparatus comprises: a housing having a laundry input opening formed at the front thereof; a tub which is disposed in the housing and which stores water; a drum which is rotatably provided in the tub and which accommodates laundry; and a drying device, which is disposed at the upper portion of the tub, removes moisture from air discharged from the tub, and is for supplying heated air to the tub. The tub includes: a tub opening provided on the front of the tub in correspondence to the laundry input opening; and a tub back which is provided at the rear of the tub, and which has a tub exhaust port for discharging the air inside the tub. The clothes treatment apparatus comprises a bearing housing which rotatably supports a rotary shaft connected to the drum, and which is coupled to the tub back. The bearing housing has a housing exhaust port formed at a position corresponding to the position of the tub exhaust port.

Description

Garment processing equipment

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

[0002] A garment treatment device is 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 according to the present disclosure provide a garment treatment device having an improved structure to improve space utilization within the garment treatment device.

[0007] Embodiments according to the present disclosure provide a garment treatment device in which a tub back forms part of an exhaust path.

[0008] Embodiments according to the present disclosure provide a garment treatment device capable of preventing or reducing strength degradation due to an improved structure of a tub.

[0009] Embodiments according to the present disclosure provide a garment treatment device including a bearing housing whose structure is improved to correspond to the structure of a tub bag.

[0010] 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.

[0011] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device includes a housing having a laundry inlet formed on the front, a tub disposed within the housing and configured to store water, a drum rotatably disposed within the tub and configured to receive laundry, and a drying device disposed above the tub and configured to remove moisture from air discharged from the tub and supply heated air to the tub. The tub includes a tub opening formed on the front of the tub corresponding to the laundry inlet, and a tub back formed with a tub exhaust port formed on the rear of the tub and configured to exhaust air inside the tub. A bearing housing is coupled to the tub back and configured to rotatably support a rotating shaft connected to the drum. A housing exhaust port is formed in the bearing housing at a position corresponding to a position of the tub exhaust port.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a part of a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of B in Figure 3.

[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates a part of a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0017] FIG. 6 is an exploded view showing a partial configuration of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a tub back according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8 illustrates a tub back according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a bearing housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 illustrates a bearing housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 9.

[0022] Figure 11 is an enlarged view of A in Figure 9.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an exhaust path according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a tub back according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 14 illustrates a duct cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure before being attached to a tub back.

[0026] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Z-Z' of Fig. 11, and illustrates an example of a joint portion of a tub back and a duct cover in an enlarged manner.

[0027] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line Z-Z' of Fig. 11, and is an enlarged view showing an example of a joint portion of a tub back and a duct cover.

[0028] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a tub back according to one embodiment 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 or related 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] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component 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.

[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 the housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with an opening formed on one side, and may be positioned within the housing so that the opening corresponds to the laundry inlet. Hereinafter, the opening formed on one side of the tub will be referred to as a tub opening.

[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 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 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 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 storing program-type data, and at least one processor performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in the at least one memory. 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. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

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

[0069] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a garment treatment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a portion of a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of B of FIG. 5 illustrates a portion of a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 6 is an exploded view illustrating a portion of a garment treatment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, a garment treatment device 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) containing water to be used in a washing cycle or a rinsing cycle, a drum (30) containing laundry, and a driving device (40) that rotates the drum (30).

[0071] 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 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).

[0072] 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).

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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 (95).

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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 (11). The tub opening may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0077] The tub (20) may include a tub body (22a) corresponding to the side surface of the cylinder. The tub body (22a) may be provided in a cylindrical shape with the front and rear sides each open. The front surface of the tub (20) having a tub opening may be provided on the open front surface of the tub body (22a). Since the front surface of the tub (20) covers a portion of the open front surface of the tub body (22a), the tub opening may be provided to be smaller than the open front surface of the tub body (22a). A tub back (200) may be provided on the open rear surface of the tub body (22a). The tub back (200) may be provided to cover the open rear surface of the tub body (22a). The tub back (200) may be provided to correspond in size and shape to the open rear surface of the tub body (22a) so as to cover the open rear surface of the tub body (22a).

[0078] 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).

[0079] A 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 inside a housing (10). The drum (30) may be configured to be rotatable by receiving power from a driving device (40).

[0080] 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).

[0081] 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).

[0082] 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 be used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.

[0083] 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).

[0084] 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).

[0085] The drum (30) may include a drum body (32), a drum front (31), and a drum back (34).

[0086] 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.

[0087] The drum front (31) may be placed at the front end of the drum body (32), and the drum back (34) may be placed at the rear end of the drum body (32). A drum opening that opens forward may be formed at the drum front (31) so that laundry may be fed into the drum (30).

[0088] 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).

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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 (24) may be formed with a plurality of holes so that air can pass smoothly from the inside to the outside of the drum.

[0091] 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).

[0092] 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 (300).

[0093] 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 stator can electromagnetically interact with the rotor to convert rotational electrical power into mechanical rotational power. The rotation of the rotor can be transmitted to the drum (30) through the rotating shaft (41).

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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).

[0096] 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 the 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.

[0097] 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).

[0098] The tub back (200) may be provided with a bearing housing (300) that rotatably supports the rotating shaft (41). The bearing housing (300) may be provided with an aluminum alloy. For example, the bearing housing (300) may be formed with aluminum die casting (ALDC). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the bearing housing (300) may also be formed with stainless steel. It is sufficient that the bearing housing (300) is formed with a material having a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20).

[0099] The bearing housing (300) can be inserted into the tub back (200) when injection molding the tub (20). More specifically, the tub (20) can be formed by inserting the bearing housing (300) 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 (300) inserted into the inside of the tub back (200) can be integrally formed.

[0100] Bearings (52) can be installed between the bearing housing (300) and the rotary shaft (41) so that the rotary shaft (41) can rotate smoothly.

[0101] 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 configured 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). A drying device (80) according to various embodiments may be arranged on the upper portion of the tub (20).

[0102] The drying device (70) may include a drying case (70a) in which a heat pump 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 may move. The drying cover (70c) may cover the open upper surface of the drying base (70b).

[0103] 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) through which refrigerant circulates and exchanges heat. The compressor (71), condenser (72), evaporator (73), etc., which constitute the heat pump, may be placed in a drying case (70a). For example, the drying device (70) may be mounted on a clothing treatment device (1) as a single module.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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 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 heated again 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.

[0106] Additionally, the drying device (70) may further include a heater (80) in addition to the heat pump to increase drying efficiency. Without being limited thereto, the drying device (70) may include only the heat pump or only the heater (80).

[0107] A heater (80) can heat air introduced into a drying device (70). The heater (80) can be placed in a heating path (77). The heater (80) can be placed downstream of a condenser (72). In addition, the heater (80) can be designed to be small in size so as to minimize or reduce path resistance. For example, the heater (80) can be a sheath heater.

[0108] The drying device (70) may be provided with an inlet passage (76) through which air discharged from the tub (20) is introduced. The drying device (70) may be provided with a heating passage (77) through which air introduced into the drying device (70) through the inlet passage (76) is heat-exchanged. The drying device (80) 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).

[0109] The inlet passage (76) is provided so that air passing through the inside of the tub (20) can be introduced into the drying device (70). The inlet passage (76) may be located on the upper side of the tub (20). The inlet passage (76) may be connected to an exhaust passage (P) formed at the rear of the tub (20).

[0110] 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).

[0111] 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).

[0112] A condenser (72) and an evaporator (73) may be placed in the heating passage (77). The introduced air may be humid as it has passed through the inside of the tub (20). The 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).

[0113] 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).

[0114] The drying device (70) may include a blower fan (78a) for causing air to flow into the interior of the tub (20). In one embodiment, the blower fan (78a) may be disposed in the supply passage (78). The blower fan (78a) may be disposed on a front side of the drying base (70b). The blower fan (78a) may cause air of the heating passage (77) and the supply passage (78) to flow into the interior of the drum (30). For example, the blower fan (78a) may include a sirocco fan.

[0115] According to one embodiment, a garment treatment device (1) may have a supply path (78) formed so that air moves 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). By extending downward from the blower fan (78a), the volume in the front-back direction may be minimized or reduced. 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, or the volume may be minimized or reduced.

[0116] 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).

[0117] 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 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).

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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).

[0120] The clothing treatment device (1) may include an exhaust path (P) for allowing air discharged from the tub (20) to flow to the drying device (70). The exhaust path (P) may be connected to an inlet path (76) of the drying device (70).

[0121] The exhaust path (P) may be provided to discharge moist air discharged from the inside of the drum (30) to the tub (20) to the outside of the tub (20). For example, the exhaust path (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20).

[0122] 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).

[0123] 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).

[0124] 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).

[0125] 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.

[0126] According to one embodiment, a tub (20) may include a reinforcing rib (250) formed on the rear side of a tub back (200) 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).

[0127] A reinforcing rib (250) may be formed to reinforce the rigidity of the tub back (200). The reinforcing rib (250) may protrude rearward from the rear of the tub back (200).

[0128] 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 (250) is not formed or a portion that is sunken forward from the rear end of the reinforcing rib (250). A portion of the rear side of the tub back (200) where the reinforcing rib (250) is not formed may be referred to as the 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) toward 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-to-rear direction greater than or equal to that of the reinforcing rib (250). The width of the partition rib (230) in the front-to-rear direction may be referred to as the height of the partition rib (230). The width of the reinforcing rib (250) in the front-to-rear direction may be referred to as the height of the reinforcing rib (250).

[0129] The heated air in the drying device (70) can be introduced into the tub (20) and then supplied into the drum (30). 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. To this end, 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).

[0130] 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 the tub (20) is viewed from the front or rear.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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).

[0133] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a duct cover (100) coupled to the tub (20) to cover the tub duct (213).

[0134] The exhaust path (P) can be formed by the duct cover (100) covering one open side of the tub duct (213). When the duct cover (100) is coupled to the tub (20), the exhaust path (P) can be formed by the recessed portion (210), the partition rib (230), and the duct cover (100).

[0135] The tub (20) may further 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).

[0136] 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 extend the exhaust path (P) upward. 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).

[0137] The duct connection portion (270) may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an open top and rear surface. The duct cover (100) may cover the open rear surface of the duct connection portion (270). The duct cover (100) may be formed to only form one side of the exhaust passage, thereby facilitating the connection and sealing structure.

[0138] The duct cover (100) can cover the tub duct (213) and the duct connection portion (270). The duct cover (100) can cover an open side of the tub duct (213) and an open rear side of the duct connection portion (270). An exhaust path (P) can be formed by the duct cover (100) covering the recessed portion (210) and the duct connection portion (270). 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 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 illustrates a tub bag according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a bearing housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 illustrates a bearing housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of A of FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an exhaust passage according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a tub bag according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] Referring to Fig. 7, a tub penetration hole (240) through which a rotating shaft (41) passes may be formed at the center of the tub back (200). A tub exhaust port (220) connected to an exhaust path (P) may be formed at one side of the lower portion of the tub back (200). Hereinafter, the center of the tub back (200) may refer to the center (C1) of the tub penetration hole (240).

[0142] 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).

[0143] 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).

[0144] Meanwhile, in order for the bearing housing (300) 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 (250) may be formed on the tub back (200). Since the reinforcing ribs (250) 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 (250) protrude. In this structure, if a separate duct is mounted on the reinforcing ribs (250) 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.

[0145] According to the present disclosure, a portion of the tub back (200) may not have a reinforcing rib (250) 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 (250) 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 that extends from the tub exhaust port (220) of the tub back (200) to the upper portion of the tub back (200) and is not formed with a reinforcing rib (250) or an area that protrudes less than the reinforcing rib (250).

[0146] A plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) can reinforce the strength of the tub back (200). The plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) can include annular reinforcing ribs (251) having a center coextensive with the center of the tub through-hole (240). The annular reinforcing ribs (251) can have different radii. The plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) can include radial reinforcing ribs (252) extending radially from the tub through-hole (240). The radial reinforcing ribs (252) can extend through the annular reinforcing ribs (251).

[0147] 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).

[0148] The height of the partition rib (230) may be set higher than the height of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (250). The height of the partition rib (230) being set higher than the height of the plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) may mean that the partition rib (230) protrudes more toward the rear of the tub back (200) than the plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) 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 (250).

[0149] The compartment rib (230) may include an outer compartment rib (231), an inner compartment rib (232), and a connecting compartment rib (233).

[0150] 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 (230) 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).

[0151] The inner partition rib (232) may extend from the annular reinforcing rib (251) to form a circular rib together with the annular reinforcing rib (251). 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 (251) 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).

[0152] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the tub back (200) may include a tub component installation portion (260). The tub component installation portion (260) may refer to a portion of the tub back (200). For example, referring to FIG. 7, the tub component installation portion (260) may refer to a portion of the lower right side of the tub back (200).

[0153] A tub installation rib (250a) can be formed in the tub component installation section (260).

[0154] The tub installation rib (250a) may include a first tub installation rib (251a) and a second tub installation rib (252a). The first tub installation rib (251a) is an annular rib and may be provided with a lower height protruding toward the rear of the tub back (200) than the annular reinforcing rib (251). The second tub installation rib (252a) is a radial rib and may be provided with a lower height protruding toward the rear of the tub back (200) than the radial reinforcing rib (252). The protruding heights of the first tub installation rib (251a) and the second tub installation rib (252a) may be provided lower than the protruding height of the annular reinforcing rib (251). The protruding heights of the first tub installation rib (251a) and the second tub installation rib (252a) can be set lower than the protruding height of the radial reinforcing rib (252).

[0155] Parts of a garment treatment device (1) not shown in the drawing may be installed in the tub component installation section (260). For example, various electrical components, including a control board for controlling the garment treatment device (1) or a power board for supplying power to the garment treatment device (1), may be installed in the tub component installation section (260).

[0156] The tub component installation portion (260) is provided with a first tub installation rib (251a) and a second tub installation rib (252a) having low protrusion heights, thereby securing space for installing components in the tub component installation portion (260). The tub back (200) may be positioned adjacent to the rear frame (10c) forming the rear of the housing (10) in order to maximize or increase its capacity. Therefore, if components are installed in the remaining portion of the tub back (200) rather than the tub component installation portion (260), the components may interfere with the rear frame (10c). Since the protrusion heights of the first tub installation rib (251a) and the second tub installation rib (252a) provided in the component installation section (260) are relatively low, the tub component installation section (260) can secure a larger gap in the front-rear direction with the rear frame (10c) than the remaining portion of the tub back (200).

[0157] Since the protruding heights of the first tub installation rib (251a) and the second tub installation rib (252a) provided in the tub component installation portion (260) are relatively low, the strength of the component installation portion (260) may be lower than that of other parts of the tub back (200). To reinforce this, as will be described later, a bearing component installation portion (360) may be inserted into the inside of the tub component installation portion (260). In addition, in order to prevent or reduce a decrease in the strength of the tub back (200), the tub component installation portion (260) may be positioned as far away as possible from the step portion (211) having relatively weak strength. The tub component installation portion (260) and the step portion (211) may be positioned to face each other based on the center (C1) of the tub back (200). In other words, the tub component installation portion (260) and the step portion (211) can be positioned diagonally within the tub back (200).

[0158] Referring to FIG. 7, the tub back (200) may include a plurality of tab holes (212a) spaced apart along the partition rib (230). The plurality of tab holes (212a) may be formed on the outside of the recessed portion (210). The plurality of tab holes (212a) may be formed adjacent to each of the outer partition rib (231), the inner partition rib (232), and the connecting partition rib (233).

[0159] A duct cover (100) may be coupled to a plurality of tap holes (212a). The plurality of tap holes (212a) may be arranged at a predetermined interval from each other. The plurality of tap holes (212a) 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.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 7, a tub exhaust port (220) may be formed in the tub back (200) to discharge air inside the tub (20).

[0161] The tub exhaust port (220) may be formed in multiple forms. 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).

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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 be positioned below the center (C1) of the tub back (200). The first tub exhaust port (221) may be positioned adjacent to the lower end of the recessed portion (210).

[0164] The second tub exhaust port (222) may be formed at a position spaced upward from the first tub exhaust port (221). The second tub exhaust port (222) may be positioned above the first tub exhaust port (221). The second tub exhaust port (222) may be positioned below the center (C1) of the tub back (200). 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 decrease in strength of the tub back (200) may be reduced compared to the case where the second tub exhaust port (222) and the first tub exhaust port (221) are formed integrally.

[0165] The third tub exhaust port (223) may be formed at a position spaced upward from the second tub exhaust port (222). The third tub exhaust port (223) may be positioned above the second tub exhaust port (222). At least a portion of the third tub exhaust port (223) may be positioned above the center (C1) of the tub back (200).

[0166] The sum of the area of ​​the first tub exhaust port (221) and the area of ​​the second tub exhaust port (222) may be provided to be larger than the area of ​​the third tub exhaust port (223). The area of ​​the tub exhaust port (220) formed below the center (C1) of the tub back (200) may be provided to be larger than the area of ​​the tub exhaust port (220) formed above the center (C1) of the tub back (200). That is, the tub exhaust port (220) may be formed to have a larger area below the center (C1) of the tub back (200).

[0167] As described above, in order for the heated air introduced into the tub (20) through the air inlet (26) to effectively contact the laundry inside the drum (30), it is preferable that the tub exhaust port (220) be spaced as far as possible from the air inlet (26) in the front-back, up-down, and left-right directions. Therefore, it is helpful for the drying efficiency to be improved when the penetration area of ​​the tub exhaust port (220) is formed larger at the lower side than at the upper side of the recessed portion (210). Conversely, when the penetration area of ​​the tub exhaust port (210) is formed larger at the upper side than at the lower side of the recessed portion (210), the air circulating through the drying device (70) may be concentrated only at the upper side of the inside of the drum (30), which may result in a decrease in the drying efficiency of the laundry accommodated inside the drum (30).

[0168] However, in order to secure sufficient flow rate, the tub exhaust port (220) may include an area formed above the center (C1) of the tub back (200). For example, the tub exhaust port (220) may include a third tub exhaust port (223) formed above the center (C1) of the tub back (200).

[0169] 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.

[0170] Although the present invention is illustrated with three tub exhaust ports (220), this is not a limitation. The shape, number, and arrangement of the tub exhaust ports (220) may be provided in various forms. For example, the tub exhaust ports (220) may be formed by densely arranging small holes, or may be formed in the form of a mesh or grille. Alternatively, the tub exhaust ports (220) may form a single exhaust port extending along the length of the exhaust passage.

[0171] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 12, the first tub exhaust port (221) may further include a tub drain groove (221a). The tub drain groove (221a) may allow water to drain into the tub (20) without remaining between the lower end of the recessed portion (210) and the lower end of the partition rib (230). The tub drain groove (221a) may be formed such that at least a portion of the first tub exhaust port (221) extends to the lower end of the partition rib (230). The tub drain groove (221a) may be formed to be inclined downward toward the inside of the tub (20) to facilitate drainage.

[0172] The tub (20) may be formed of a relatively weak plastic material. To reinforce the strength of the tub (20), a plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) may be provided on the tub back (200). In addition, to further reinforce the strength of the tub back (200), a bearing housing (300) may be inserted into the tub back (200). That is, when the tub (20) is injection-molded, the bearing housing (300) may be injected while being inserted.

[0173] The bearing housing (300) may include a material having a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20). The bearing housing (300) may be formed of aluminum die casting (ALDC) or stainless steel. By including a material having a higher strength than the material forming the tub (20), the bearing housing (300) may be inserted into the tub back (200) to reinforce the strength of the tub back (200).

[0174] 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).

[0175] 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 (300) may be provided inside the tub back (200).

[0176] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 11, a bearing housing (300) according to one embodiment may be provided in a disc shape having substantially the same diameter as a disc-shaped tub back (200).

[0177] In general, the bearing housing (300) may be provided with a size smaller than the diameter of the tub back (200), but the bearing housing (300) according to the present disclosure may be provided with a diameter equal to or similar to that of the tub back (200).

[0178] 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 a reinforcing rib (250) is not formed. To reinforce this, a bearing housing (300) 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).

[0179] Referring to FIG. 9, the bearing housing (300) may include a recess reinforcement portion (310) inserted into a recess portion (210) of the tub back (200), and a rib reinforcement portion (330) inserted into a partition rib (230) of the tub back (200).

[0180] The recess reinforcement part (310) can be inserted into the recess part (210) to reinforce the strength of the recess part (210).

[0181] As described above, a tub exhaust port (220) is formed in the tub back (200), and a recessed portion (210) is formed around the tub exhaust port (220), so the strength of the tub back (200) may be weakened due to cross-sectional loss caused by the tub exhaust port (220) and the absence of a reinforcing rib (250). In order to reinforce the strength of the recessed portion (210), a recessed reinforcing portion (310) having a shape corresponding to the recessed portion (210) may be inserted into the recessed portion (210).

[0182] The rib reinforcement part (330) can be inserted into the partition rib (230) to reinforce the strength of the partition rib (230).

[0183] The bearing housing (300) may include a housing exhaust port (320) formed in a recess reinforcement portion (310).

[0184] The housing exhaust port (320) may correspond to the tub exhaust port (220). Since the housing exhaust port (320) corresponds to the tub exhaust port (220), air may be discharged to the outside of the tub (20) through the housing exhaust port (320) and the tub exhaust port (220). When the bearing housing (300) is inserted into the tub back (200), the housing exhaust port (320) and the tub exhaust port (220) may point to substantially the same hole.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the housing exhaust port (320) may include a first housing exhaust port (321) having a position and shape corresponding to the first tub exhaust port (221), a second housing exhaust port (322) having a position and shape corresponding to the second tub exhaust port (222), and a third housing exhaust port (323) having a position and shape corresponding to the third tub exhaust port (223).

[0186] The first housing exhaust port (321) may be positioned adjacent to the lower end of the recess reinforcement portion (310). The first housing exhaust port (321) may be positioned below the center (C2) of the bearing housing (300).

[0187] The second housing exhaust port (322) may be positioned above the first housing exhaust port (321). The second housing exhaust port (322) may be positioned below the center (C2) of the bearing housing (300).

[0188] The third housing exhaust port (323) may be positioned above the second housing exhaust port (322). The third housing exhaust port (323) may be positioned above the center (C2) of the bearing housing (300).

[0189] The sum of the area of ​​the first housing exhaust port (321) and the area of ​​the second housing exhaust port (322) may be provided to be larger than the area of ​​the third housing exhaust port (323), which is the same as or similar to the first tub exhaust port (221), the second tub exhaust port (222), and the third tub exhaust port (223).

[0190] In addition, the distance between the first housing exhaust port (321), the second housing exhaust port (322), and the third housing exhaust port (323) may be set to a distance that maintains the structural rigidity of the tub (20) and the tub back (200) while the second housing exhaust port (322) and the third housing exhaust port (323) are positioned as close as possible to the first housing exhaust port (321). In addition, the distance between the two may be set to a theoretical calculation value or an experimental value obtained through repeated experiments.

[0191] The housing exhaust port (320) is not limited to the above. The housing exhaust port may be formed as a single hole. Corresponding to the tub exhaust port being formed as a single hole, the housing exhaust port (320) may also be formed as a single hole extending in the longitudinal direction of the flow path. In this case, the area of ​​the hole increases, thereby increasing the airflow, thereby improving drying efficiency.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 11, the bearing housing (300) may further include a bearing drain groove (321a).

[0193] A bearing drain groove (321a) may be formed in the first housing exhaust port (321) to correspond to the tub drain groove (221a) formed in the first tub exhaust port (221). The bearing drain groove (321a) may be formed such that at least a portion of the first housing exhaust port (321) extends to the lower end of the rib reinforcement portion (330). The bearing drain groove (321a) may be formed to be inclined toward the inside of the tub (20) in the same manner as or similar to the tub drain groove (221a).

[0194] The tub back (200) may include a step portion (211) for expanding the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage (P). The exhaust passage (P) may be provided so that the width of the portion formed by the duct connection portion (270) is larger than the width of the portion formed in the recess portion (210) by the step portion (211). The step portion (211) may be formed by a portion of the recess portion (210) being stepped forward more than the remainder of the recess portion (210).

[0195] 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).

[0196] The bearing housing (300) may include an avoidance portion (311) corresponding to the step portion (211). The avoidance portion (311) may be formed to avoid the bearing housing (300) 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 (300) 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).

[0197] The bearing housing (300) may include a rib reinforcement portion (330) corresponding to the partition rib (230) formed in the tub back (200).

[0198] The rib reinforcement part (330) may include an outer rib reinforcement part (331) provided to correspond to the outer compartment rib (221) to reinforce the strength of the outer compartment rib (221), an inner rib reinforcement part (332) provided to correspond to the inner compartment rib (222) to reinforce the strength of the inner compartment rib (222), and a connecting rib reinforcement part (333) provided to correspond to the connecting compartment rib (223) to reinforce the strength of the connecting compartment rib (223).

[0199] The outer rib reinforcement and / or the inner rib reinforcement may be formed at a height higher than the portion forming the rim of the bearing housing.

[0200] The bearing housing (300) may include a plurality of bearing ribs (350) corresponding to a plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) formed in the tub back (200). The plurality of bearing ribs (350) may be formed to correspond to a plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) formed in the tub back (200).

[0201] The plurality of bearing ribs (350) may include annular bearing ribs (351) provided to correspond to the annular reinforcing ribs (251) constituting the plurality of reinforcing ribs (250). The plurality of bearing ribs (350) may include radial bearing ribs (352) provided to correspond to the radial reinforcing ribs (252) constituting the plurality of reinforcing ribs (250).

[0202] The radial bearing ribs (352) may extend from the bearing through hole (340) along the radial direction of the bearing through hole (340). The radial bearing ribs (352) may have a constant height along the radial direction of the bearing through hole (340). The bearing through hole (340) may be formed at the center of the bearing housing (300). A rotary shaft (41) of a driving device (40) may be inserted into the bearing through hole (340).

[0203] The radial bearing ribs (352) may extend to a constant height from any one of the plurality of annular bearing ribs (351) or to the rim of the bearing housing (300). The constant height of the bearing ribs (352) may mean that the degree to which the bearing ribs (352) protrude toward the rear of the bearing housing (300) is constant. The rear of the bearing housing (300) may refer to the upper direction in FIG. 10. In other words, the bearing ribs (352) may be provided so that the length protruding toward the rear of the bearing housing (300) along the radial direction of the bearing through-hole (340) is constant. Accordingly, the radial bearing ribs (352) may secure more installation space for the drive motor (42) than when they extend from the bearing through-hole (340) in a manner that the height gradually decreases along the radial direction of the bearing through-hole (340). As another example, the radial bearing ribs (352) may be arranged to extend from the bearing through hole (340) to one of the plurality of annular bearing ribs (351) at a constant height, and to gradually decrease in height from the one annular bearing rib toward the rim of the bearing housing (300). Alternatively, the radial bearing ribs (352) may be arranged to extend from the bearing through hole (340) to one of the plurality of annular bearing ribs (351) at a constant height, and to have a stepped height of the radial bearing ribs (352) at one of the annular bearing ribs. The stepped height of the radial bearing ribs (352) at one of the annular bearing ribs may include an increase in height of the one annular bearing rib and a decrease in height of the one annular bearing rib.

[0204] Since the portion forming the recessed portion (210) of the tub back (200) does not have a plurality of reinforcing ribs (250) formed therein, the bearing housing (300) may also not have a plurality of bearing ribs (350) formed in the recessed reinforcing portion (310). Through this, the air flow inside the exhaust path (P) formed by the recessed portion (210) may become smooth.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the bearing housing (300) may include a bearing component installation portion (360). The bearing component installation portion (360) may refer to a portion of the bearing housing (300). For example, referring to FIG. 9, the bearing component installation portion (360) may refer to a portion of the lower right side of the bearing housing (300).

[0206] A bearing installation rib (350a) may be formed in the bearing component installation section (360).

[0207] The bearing installation rib (350a) may include a first bearing installation rib (351a) and a second bearing installation rib (352a). The first bearing installation rib (351a) is an annular rib and may be provided with a lower height protruding toward the rear of the bearing housing (300) than the annular bearing rib (351). The second bearing installation rib (352a) is a radial rib and may be provided with a lower height protruding toward the rear of the bearing housing (300) than the radial reinforcing rib (352). The protruding heights of the first bearing installation rib (351a) and the second bearing installation rib (352a) may be provided lower than the protruding height of the annular reinforcing rib (351). The protrusion heights of the first bearing installation rib (351a) and the second bearing installation rib (352a) may be set lower than the protrusion height of the radial bearing rib (352).

[0208] Since the protruding heights of the first bearing installation rib (351a) and the second bearing installation rib (352a) provided in the bearing component installation portion (360) are relatively low, the strength of the bearing installation portion (360) may be lower than that of other parts of the bearing housing (300). In order to prevent or reduce the strength reduction of the bearing housing (300), the bearing component installation portion (360) may be positioned as far away as possible from the avoidance portion (311) which has relatively weak strength. Since the avoidance portion (311) is an area where the bearing housing (300) is not provided, the strength of the bearing housing (300) may be reduced in an area adjacent to the avoidance portion (311) due to cross-sectional loss. In order to place the bearing component installation portion (360) and the avoidance portion (311), which are relatively weak, as far apart as possible within the bearing housing (300), the bearing component installation portion (360) and the avoidance portion (311) may be placed facing each other with respect to the center (C2) of the bearing housing (300). In other words, the bearing component installation portion (360) and the avoidance portion (311) may be positioned diagonally within the bearing housing (300).

[0209] Fig. 14 illustrates a duct cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure before being coupled to a tub bag. Fig. 15 is an example of a cross-section taken along line Z-Z' of Fig. 11, and illustrates an enlarged view of the joint portion between the tub bag and the duct cover. Fig. 16 is an example of a cross-section taken along line Z-Z' of Fig. 11, and illustrates an enlarged view of the joint portion between the tub bag and the duct cover.

[0210] Referring to FIG. 14, a duct cover (100) can be coupled to a tub back (200). The duct cover (100) can be coupled to the tub back (200) so as to cover a recessed portion (210) of the tub back (200).

[0211] 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 fastening flange portion (110) formed along the periphery of the cover portion (120). 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).

[0212] The cover portion (120) may protrude rearwardly 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).

[0213] The connecting portion (130) may be inclined so that the cover portion (120) protrudes rearward from the fastening flange portion (110). In other words, the connecting portion (130) may extend rearward. By extending the connecting portion (130) rearward, the connecting portion (130) may connect the cover portion (120) and the fastening flange portion (110), which are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the front and rear directions.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] 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 (300). 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).

[0217] A fastening hole (110a) may be formed in the fastening flange portion (110). A plurality of fastening holes (110a) may be formed in the fastening flange portion (110). The plurality of fastening holes (110a) may be spaced apart from each other along the fastening flange portion (110).

[0218] Referring to Fig. 14, a plurality of fastening holes (110a) can be formed to correspond to a plurality of tab holes (212a) 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 (212a).

[0219] Referring to Fig. 15, a protrusion (301) of the bearing housing may be provided on the inside of the tap hole (212a). A screw may not be inserted into the protrusion (301) of the bearing housing.

[0220] Although not shown, a fastening structure may be formed through tapping in the fastening portion (301) of the bearing housing (300). In this case, a screw may be inserted through the tap hole (212a) into the fastening portion (301). That is, the duct cover (100) may be coupled not only to the tub back (200) but also to the bearing housing (300).

[0221] Since the bearing housing (300) has higher strength than the tub back (200) and the duct cover (100) also has higher strength than the tub back (200), when the duct cover (100) is coupled with the tap hole (212a) and the fastening portion (301), the coupling between the duct cover (100) and the tub back (200) can be strengthened. Specifically, the duct cover (100) can be more stably coupled to the tub back (200) than when the duct cover (100) is coupled only to the tap hole (212a).

[0222] Referring to FIG. 16, an example of a bonding structure different from that illustrated in FIG. 15 is described.

[0223] Referring to Fig. 16, the bearing housing (300a) may include a fastening portion (301a) that protrudes toward the rear of the tub back (200). Specifically, the fastening portion (301a) may penetrate the boss portion (212b) formed in the tub back (200) and protrude toward the rear more than the boss portion (212b).

[0224] The fastening portion (301a) of the bearing housing (300a) may have a fastening structure formed through tapping, identical to or similar to the tap hole (212a) of Fig. 14. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a hole may be formed so that it can be joined through a rivet.

[0225] The fastening hole (110a) of the duct cover (100) and the fastening portion (301a) of the bearing housing (300) can be positioned to correspond to each other. When the fastening hole (110a) and the fastening portion (301a) are positioned to correspond to each other, a screw can be inserted.

[0226] In this case, the duct cover (100) can be directly connected to the bearing housing (300). By directly connecting the duct cover (100) and the bearing housing (300), the connection between the duct cover (100) and the tub back (200) can be made strong.

[0227] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a tub back according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0228] Referring to FIG. 17, a tub back (200) may be formed with a tub exhaust port (220). The tub exhaust port (220) may extend from the lower side of the recessed portion (210) along the direction in which the tub duct (213) extends.

[0229] As illustrated in Fig. 17, the tub exhaust port (220) may be formed as a single hole, but its size may be increased, thereby increasing the amount of air passing through the tub exhaust port (220), thereby improving drying efficiency. However, the shape, position, and size of the tub exhaust port (220) are not limited thereto and may be changed according to design.

[0230] Referring to FIG. 17, the housing exhaust port (320) can be formed in substantially the same shape, position, and size as the tub exhaust port (220), and thus can be formed as a single hole like the tub exhaust port (220). The shape, position, and size of the housing exhaust port (320) can be changed to correspond to the tub exhaust port (220) depending on the design of the tub exhaust port (220).

[0231] Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawings, the clothes treatment device according to various embodiments may not include a recessed portion. The tub back may be formed with a tub exhaust port for discharging air inside the tub, but the recessed portion may not be formed around the tub exhaust port. A duct or a duct cover may be coupled to the tub back to guide the air discharged through the tub exhaust port to a drying device located above the tub. A bearing housing may be inserted into the tub to reinforce the strength of the tub back, and the bearing housing may have a housing exhaust port having a position, size, and shape corresponding to the tub exhaust port. The bearing housing may not include a recessed reinforcement portion, similar to the tub back not including a recessed portion. The bearing housing may include a rib reinforcement portion inserted into a reinforcing rib formed around the tub exhaust port. In addition, the bearing housing may be configured to have a diameter similar to the diameter of the tub back.

[0232] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device includes a housing having a laundry inlet formed on the front, a tub disposed within the housing and configured to store water, a drum rotatably disposed within the tub and configured to receive laundry, and a drying device disposed above the tub and configured to remove moisture from air discharged from the tub and supply heated air to the tub. The tub includes a tub opening formed on the front of the tub corresponding to the laundry inlet, and a tub back formed with a tub exhaust port formed on the rear of the tub and configured to exhaust air inside the tub. A bearing housing is coupled to the tub back and configured to rotatably support a rotating shaft connected to the drum. A housing exhaust port is formed in the bearing housing at a position corresponding to a position of the tub exhaust port.

[0233] The above tub may further include a reinforcing rib that is provided to reinforce the strength of the tub back and protrudes toward the rear of the tub back.

[0234] The above tub may further include a tub duct formed in the tub back to guide air discharged through the tub exhaust port to the drying device.

[0235] The above tub may further include a duct cover provided to cover the tub duct and provided to form an exhaust path that guides air discharged through the tub exhaust port to the drying device by covering the tub duct.

[0236] The above tub duct may include a recessed portion provided around the tub exhaust port and positioned forward of the rear end of the reinforcing rib, and a partition rib protruding from the edge of the recessed portion toward the rear of the tub back.

[0237] The bearing housing may include a recess reinforcement part inserted into the recess part to reinforce the strength of the recess part, and a rib reinforcement part inserted into the partition rib to reinforce the strength of the partition rib.

[0238] The above bearing housing may be provided in a disc shape having the same size as the tub back.

[0239] The above tub may further include a stepped portion extending forwardly from the top of the recessed portion in an inclined manner to widen the front-rear width of the exhaust passage.

[0240] The above bearing housing may further include a avoidance portion, which is a groove having a shape corresponding to the step portion, to prevent the bearing housing from being inserted into the step portion.

[0241] The above tub back may further include a tub part installation portion that protrudes lower toward the rear of the tub back than the height at which the reinforcing rib protrudes toward the rear of the tub back.

[0242] The above bearing housing may further include a bearing component installation portion inserted into the tub component installation portion.

[0243] The above avoidance part and the bearing part installation part can be arranged to face each other with respect to the center of the bearing housing.

[0244] The above tub may further include an air inlet formed at a front end of the tub and provided to allow heated air from the drying device to flow into the inside of the tub.

[0245] The air inlet may be formed on one side adjacent to the top of the tub, and the tub exhaust port may be formed on the other side adjacent to the bottom of the tub back.

[0246] The air inlet may be formed on the other side adjacent to the top of the tub, and the tub exhaust port may be formed on one side adjacent to the bottom of the tub back.

[0247] The above tub exhaust port may include a first tub exhaust port positioned below the center of the tub back, a second tub exhaust port positioned above the first tub exhaust port and having a larger area positioned below the center of the tub back, and a third tub exhaust port positioned above the second tub exhaust port.

[0248] The sum of the area of ​​the first tub exhaust port and the area of ​​the second tub exhaust port may be greater than the area of ​​the third tub exhaust port.

[0249] The housing exhaust port may include a first housing exhaust port having a position and shape corresponding to the first tub exhaust port, a second housing exhaust port having a position and shape corresponding to the second tub exhaust port, and a third housing exhaust port having a position and shape corresponding to the third tub exhaust port.

[0250] The above partition rib may include an outer partition rib provided on one side of the tub exhaust port in the radial direction of the tub back, an inner partition rib provided on the other side of the tub exhaust port in the radial direction of the tub back, and a connecting partition rib connecting the outer partition rib and the inner partition rib.

[0251] The rib reinforcement part may include an outer rib reinforcement part that is provided to reinforce the strength of the outer compartment rib and is provided to correspond to the outer compartment rib, an inner rib reinforcement part that is provided to reinforce the strength of the inner compartment rib and is provided to correspond to the inner compartment rib, and a connecting rib reinforcement part that is provided to reinforce the strength of the connecting compartment rib and is provided to correspond to the connecting compartment rib.

[0252] The drying device may include a heat pump and be placed on top of the tub.

[0253] According to the present disclosure, a garment treatment device having an improved structure to improve space utilization within the garment treatment device can be provided.

[0254] According to the present disclosure, a garment treatment device can be provided in which a tub bag forms a part of an exhaust path.

[0255] According to the present disclosure, a garment treatment device can be provided that can prevent or reduce strength degradation due to an improved structure of a tub.

[0256] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment treatment device including a bearing housing having an improved structure to correspond to the structure of a tub bag.

[0257] 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 description below.

[0258] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A housing having a laundry inlet formed on the front; A tub arranged within the housing and configured to store water; A drum provided rotatably within the tub and configured to accommodate laundry; and 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, A tub opening provided on the front of the above tub corresponding to the laundry inlet, and A tub back is provided at the rear of the tub and has a tub exhaust port formed therein to discharge air inside the tub. The above tub back is coupled with a bearing housing that is arranged to rotatably support a rotating shaft connected to the drum. A clothing treatment device in which a housing exhaust port is formed in the bearing housing at a position corresponding to the position of the tub exhaust port.

2. In paragraph 1, The above tub, A reinforcing rib provided to reinforce the strength of the tub back and protruding toward the rear of the tub back, A tub duct formed in the tub back to guide air discharged through the tub exhaust port to the drying device; and A clothes treatment device further comprising a duct cover provided to cover the tub duct and formed by covering the tub duct an exhaust path that guides air discharged through the tub exhaust port to the drying device.

3. In paragraph 2, The above tub duct, A recessed portion provided around the above tub exhaust port and positioned forward of the rear end of the above reinforcing rib, A garment treatment device including a partition rib protruding from the edge of the recessed portion toward the rear of the tub back.

4. In paragraph 3, The above bearing housing, A recess reinforcement part inserted into the recess part, which is provided to reinforce the strength of the recess part, A garment treatment device including a rib reinforcement part inserted into the partition rib to reinforce the strength of the partition rib.

5. In paragraph 1, A clothing treatment device in which the bearing housing is provided in a disc shape having the same size as the tub bag.

6. In paragraph 3, The above tub, A clothing treatment device further including a stepped portion extending forwardly and slantedly from the top of the recessed portion to widen the front-rear width of the exhaust path.

7. In paragraph 6, The above bearing housing, A garment treatment device further comprising an avoidance portion, which is a groove having a shape corresponding to the stepped portion, to prevent the bearing housing from being inserted into the stepped portion.

8. In paragraph 7, The above tub bag is, The above reinforcing rib further includes a tub component installation portion that protrudes lower toward the rear of the tub back than the height at which the above reinforcing rib protrudes toward the rear of the tub back, The above bearing housing, A garment treatment device further comprising a bearing part installation part inserted into the above tub part installation part.

9. In paragraph 8, A clothing treatment device in which the above-mentioned avoidance part and the above-mentioned bearing component installation part are positioned oppositely based on the center of the bearing housing.

10. In paragraph 1, The above tub, It further includes an air inlet formed at the front end of the above tub and arranged to allow heated air to flow into the inside of the tub from the drying device, The air inlet is formed on one side adjacent to the top of the tub and the tub exhaust port is formed on the other side adjacent to the bottom of the tub back, or A garment treatment device wherein the air inlet is formed on the other side adjacent to the top of the tub and the tub exhaust port is formed on one side adjacent to the bottom of the tub back.

11. In paragraph 1, The above tub exhaust port is, A first tub exhaust port positioned below the center of the above tub back, A second tub exhaust port having a larger area and positioned above the first tub exhaust port and positioned below the center of the tub back; and Including a third tub exhaust port arranged above the second tub exhaust port, A clothes treatment device wherein the sum of the area of ​​the first tub exhaust port and the area of ​​the second tub exhaust port is larger than the area of ​​the third tub exhaust port.

12. In paragraph 11, The above housing exhaust port is, A first housing exhaust port having a position and shape corresponding to the first tub exhaust port, A second housing exhaust port having a position and shape corresponding to the second tub exhaust port, and A garment treatment device including a third housing exhaust port having a position and shape corresponding to the third tub exhaust port.

13. In paragraph 3, The above compartment ribs are, An outer partition rib provided on one side of the tub exhaust port in the radial direction of the tub back, In the radial direction of the above tub back, an inner partition rib provided on the other side of the above tub exhaust port, and A garment treatment device including a connecting compartment rib connecting the outer compartment rib and the inner compartment rib.

14. In paragraph 13, The above rib reinforcement part is, An outer rib reinforcement part provided to reinforce the strength of the outer compartment rib and provided to correspond to the outer compartment rib, An inner rib reinforcement part provided to reinforce the strength of the inner compartment rib and provided to correspond to the inner compartment rib; and A garment treatment device including a connecting rib reinforcing member that is provided to reinforce the strength of the connecting compartment rib and is provided to correspond to the connecting compartment rib.

15. In paragraph 1, The drying device is a clothes treatment device including a heat pump and is placed on the upper part of the tub.

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