Clothes care apparatus

Abstract

This clothes care apparatus comprises: a main body including a care chamber that accommodates clothes; and a steam generating device configured to generate steam that is to be supplied to the care chamber. The steam generating device includes: a case that stores water for generating the steam; and a cover that is coupled to the upper portion of the case. Also, the steam generating device includes: a heater that is disposed inside the case to heat the water stored in the case; and a plate that is provided below the cover to prevent the water stored in the case from contacting the cover. The plate is disposed spaced apart from the cover.

Description

Clothing manager

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a steam generating device having an improved structure and a garment care device including the same.

[0002] A clothes care device is a device that performs clothes care, such as drying wet clothes, removing dust or odors attached to clothes, and reducing wrinkles in clothes.

[0003] A garment management device may be equipped with a heat exchanger that supplies hot air to a room where garments are stored to dry them. Additionally, the device may be equipped with a steam generator configured to perform refreshing functions, such as removing wrinkles, deodorizing, and removing static electricity from garments.

[0004] The heat exchanger and steam generator may be located within the machine room, and the machine room may be located beneath the management room. The management room and the machine room may be separated from each other.

[0005] The clothing management machine dries the clothing stored inside the management room by means of a heat exchanger installed in the machine room, and the air that has become humid after drying the clothing is dehumidified by the heat exchanger and can be supplied back into the management room.

[0006] The steam generator may include a water level sensor configured to detect the water level contained therein and a heater configured to heat the water.

[0007] The water contained within the steam generator may be hard water containing a large amount of minerals. When heated by a heater, the hard water boils. Some of this boiling water splashes onto the inside of the steam generator, potentially forming scale.

[0008] If such scale is formed, it may cause a false detection of the sensor, causing the heater to operate when the water level is actually low and mistaken for high, or when the water level is actually high and mistaken for low, water may continue to be supplied into the steam generator and overflow.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment care machine including an improved steam generating device capable of preventing scale formation on the interior.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment care machine including an improved steam generating device capable of preventing false detection of internal water level.

[0011] 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.

[0012] A garment care device according to the invention comprises a main body including a management room for accommodating garments and a steam generator configured to generate steam to be supplied to the management room. The steam generator comprises a case storing water for generating steam and a cover coupled to an upper portion of the case. In addition, the steam generator comprises a heater disposed within the case to heat the water stored in the case, and a plate provided on the lower side of the cover to prevent the water stored in the case from contacting the cover. The plate is disposed spaced apart from the cover.

[0013] A garment management device according to the invention comprises a main body including a management room, a machine room disposed below the management room, and a steam generating device disposed inside the machine room. The steam generating device comprises a case storing water for generating steam, a water level detection sensor including a low-level electrode for detecting a low water level inside the case, and a high-level electrode for detecting a high water level inside the case. In addition, the device comprises a plate disposed above a water level detection unit provided at a lower portion of the high-level electrode.

[0014] A garment care device according to the present invention comprises a main body including a management room for accommodating garments and a steam generator configured to generate steam to be supplied to the management room. The steam generator comprises a cover, a case coupled with the cover to form a storage space therein, and a plate provided on the upper portion of the storage space to prevent water stored in the storage space from contacting the cover. The plate is arranged at an angle with respect to the cover.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which a door is opened in a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a steam generating device in a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a steam generating device including a cross-section along line A-A' of FIG. 5 in a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a steam generating device in a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a steam generating device in a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a water level detection sensor in a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating a plate in a clothing manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a plate in a clothing manager according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating a plate in a clothing manager according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a plate in a clothing manager according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] 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.

[0029] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0033] The terms "part," "module," and "member" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, multiple "parts," "modules," or "members" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "member" may include multiple components.

[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] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0040] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a door is opened in a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the clothing manager (1) may include a main body (10) forming an exterior, and a door (20) rotatably coupled to the main body (10).

[0042] The main body (10) may have a roughly hexahedral shape with one side open. An opening (10a) may be formed on the front surface of the main body (10). A door (20) that is rotatably coupled may be installed on the main body (10).

[0043] Although not shown in the drawing, the door (20) can be installed to the main body (10) via a hinge or link, etc.

[0044] The main body (10) may include a management room (30) provided within the main body (10) and where clothing is stored and managed. The front of the management room (30) may be formed to be open. The management room (30) may also be opened and closed by a door (20) that opens and closes the opening (10a).

[0045] Fig. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a garment manager according to the present invention. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a garment manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the main body (10) may include an outer cabinet (11) and an inner cabinet (12) disposed inside the outer cabinet (11) and forming a management room (30) in which clothing is accommodated. In addition, the main body (10) may include a support member (50) disposed inside the management room (30) and configured to hold clothing.

[0047] The main body (10) may include a machine room (40) equipped with a heat exchanger (60) that is arranged to dehumidify or heat the air inside the management room (30).

[0048] The management room (30) can form a space where clothing is accommodated. The management room (30) can be configured to include an upper surface (12a), a lower surface (12b), a left surface (12c), a right surface (12d), and a rear surface (12e) provided in the inner cabinet (12).

[0049] The inner cabinet (12) may include a frame (13) provided to support the upper surface (12a), lower surface (12b), left surface (12c), right surface (12d), and rear surface (12e).

[0050] The frame (13) can form a management room (30) and a machine room (40) placed below the management room (30).

[0051] The support member (50) may be installed on the upper surface (12a) of the management room (30). The support member (50) may be detachably installed in the management room (30). At least one support member (50) may be provided. The support member (50) may be formed in the shape of a clothes hanger so that clothing can be hung on it. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0052] The support member (50) may be provided so that air can flow inside it. Dust or foreign substances on clothing can be removed by the air supplied to the inside of the support member (50).

[0053] An air hole (51) for supplying air to the clothing may be formed in the support member (50). The air hole (51) may be formed at the top of the support member (50), and air may be supplied to the clothing through the air hole (51).

[0054] However, it is not limited thereto, and the air hole (51) can be formed in various sizes at various locations to widely spray the supplied air onto the clothing.

[0055] The management office (30) may include a first inlet (31a) and a second inlet (32a), a first outlet (31b) and a second outlet (32b), and a steam inlet (33).

[0056] The first inlet (31a) and the first outlet (31b) may be formed on the lower surface (12b) of the management room (30). The first inlet (31a) may be positioned at the rear of the lower surface (12b) of the management room (30). The first outlet (31b) may be positioned at the front of the lower surface (12b) of the management room (30). The first inlet (31a) and the first outlet (31b) may be positioned adjacent to each other.

[0057] The steam inlet (33) may be placed at the lower part of the rear (12e) of the management room (30). The steam inlet (33) may be placed above the first inlet (31a).

[0058] The second inlet (32a) may be formed on the upper part of the upper surface (12a) of the management room (30). The second outlet (32b) may be formed at the center of the rear surface (12e) of the management room (30). The second inlet (32a) and the second outlet (32b) may be positioned adjacent to each other.

[0059] The second inlet (32a) of the management room (30) can be connected to the support member (50). Air flowing in through the second inlet (32a) can be delivered to the support member (50) through the air hole (51) and can be delivered to clothing placed on the support member (50).

[0060] A drain tank (61) and a water tank (70) that are detachable from the main body (10) can be installed at the bottom of the main body (10). The drain tank (61) and the water tank (70) can be placed at the bottom of the management room (30).

[0061] A drain tank (61) may be provided to facilitate condensate treatment by a heat exchanger (60). A water supply tank (70) may store water required to generate steam in a steam generator (100).

[0062] Water in the water tank (70) can be supplied to the steam generator (100) and used to form steam. The water tank (70) can be installed so as to be detachable from the main body (10) to facilitate water replenishment.

[0063] A drainage tank (61) and a water supply tank (70) may be provided in front of the machine room (40). The machine room (40) may be provided on the lower side of the main body (10). The machine room (40) may be provided on the lower side of the management room (30).

[0064] The main body may include a plurality of hoses (68). The plurality of hoses (68) may be used in the heat exchanger (60) or the steam generator (100), respectively.

[0065] A heat exchanger (60) may be provided to dehumidify and heat the air inside the management room (30) as needed.

[0066] A heat exchanger (60) may be installed to supply hot air into the interior of a management room (30). The heat exchanger (60) may be equipped with a first fan (62), an evaporator (63) through which refrigerant circulates, a condenser (64), and a compressor (65), and may be arranged to dehumidify and heat air.

[0067] As the refrigerant evaporates in the evaporator (63) of the heat exchanger (60), it absorbs latent heat of the surrounding air, thereby condensing and removing moisture in the air.

[0068] When the refrigerant is condensed in the condenser (64) through the compressor (65), the surrounding air can be heated by releasing latent heat toward the surrounding air.

[0069] The evaporator (63) and the condenser (64) perform a heat exchange function, so that the air introduced into the machine room (40) by the first fan (62) can be dehumidified and heated sequentially through the evaporator (63) and the condenser (64).

[0070] The heat exchanger (60) installed in the machine room (40) may include a first duct (66) connecting an evaporator (63), a condenser (64), and a first fan (62), and the first duct (66) may be connected to a management room (30) to form a first flow path (67) circulating between the management room (30) and the first duct (66).

[0071] The first duct (66) can be connected to the first inlet (31a) and the first outlet (31b) of the management office (30). One end of the first duct (66) can be connected to the first inlet (31a), and the other end can be connected to the first outlet (31b).

[0072] The air in the management room (30) can be introduced into the first duct (66) through the first outlet (31b), and the introduced air can be dehumidified and introduced back into the management room (30) through the first inlet (31a).

[0073] The first inlet (31a) may be positioned at the rear of the management room (30), and the first outlet (31b) may be positioned at the front of the management room (30). However, this is not limited thereto. The positions of the first inlet (31a) and the first outlet (31b) may be varied as needed.

[0074] The first duct (66) may be provided to dehumidify air introduced through the first outlet (31b) and discharge it through the first inlet (31a). The first fan (62) may be provided on the first duct (66) to suck air from the management room (30) into the interior of the first duct (66).

[0075] A steam generator (100) configured to receive water from a water tank (70) and generate steam to be supplied to the management room (30) may be provided in the machine room (40).

[0076] The steam generator (100) can be connected to a water tank (70) to receive water and generate steam, and can include a steam outlet (151) that guides the generated steam to a steam injection unit (152). The steam injection unit (152) can be placed at the lower part of the rear (12e) of the management room (30).

[0077] The steam injection unit (152) may have a nozzle-shaped end to smoothly inject steam into the internal space of the management room (30), and may be installed so as to be exposed to the interior of the management room (30).

[0078] The management room (30) may include a blower (80) for circulating air inside the management room (30). The blower (80) may include a second duct (81), and a second fan (82) may be installed inside the second duct (81).

[0079] The second duct (81) may be connected to the management room (30) to form a second flow path (83) that circulates between the management room (30) and the second duct (81). The second fan (82) may be placed on the second flow path (83).

[0080] The second duct (81) may be formed at the rear of the second outlet (32b) of the management room (30). The second duct (81) may be provided at the upper side of the rear (12e) of the management room (30) and may include a filter (90) therein.

[0081] The filter (90) may include a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, but is not limited thereto.

[0082] The second duct (81) can be combined with a top cover (91) placed on the upper part of the management room (30). The blower (80) is placed on the rear part of the upper part of the management room (30) and can include a motor (84) that generates rotational force and at least one second fan (82) that rotates by the motor (84).

[0083] The motor (84) has an axis that protrudes on both sides, and a second fan (82) can be coupled to each end of the axis. Through this structure, a pair of second fans (82) can be rotated by one motor (84).

[0084] A pair of second fans (82) may be provided as centrifugal fans that suck in air in the axial direction and discharge the air radially outward. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0085] The second fan (82) can be accommodated by a fan case (85). The fan case (85) can be coupled to a duct bracket (86) provided on the upper surface (12a) of the management room (30).

[0086] At least one duct hole (86a) can be formed in the duct bracket (86), and each second fan (82) can be coupled to at least one duct hole (86a) to move the air of the second duct (81) to the second inlet (32a).

[0087] The second duct (81) can be connected to the second inlet (32a) and the second outlet (32b) of the management office (30). One end of the second duct (81) can be connected to the second inlet (32a), and the other end can be connected to the second outlet (32b) of the management office (30).

[0088] The second inlet (32a) is connected to the support member (50) so that air from the second duct (81) can be delivered to the support member (50).

[0089] The second fan (82) placed inside the second duct (81) can be arranged to suck in air inside the management room (30) through the second outlet (32b) and discharge it through the second inlet (32a).

[0090] A filter installation portion (92) for installing a filter (90) may be provided at the rear (12e) of the management room (30). A second discharge port (32b) may be formed at a position corresponding to the filter installation portion (92).

[0091] The internal air of the management office (30) can be filtered by the filter (90) of the second outlet (32b) when it flows into the second duct (81). Dust and odor can be removed from the air flowing into the second duct (81) by the filter (90).

[0092] Air filtered by the filter (90) can be discharged to the support member (50) through the blower (80). The filter (90) may include a dust collecting filter (not shown) for removing dust or a means for deodorization.

[0093] The management room (30) can be operated while the clothing is placed on the support member (50) and the door (20) is closed when managing clothing. The management room (30) can circulate air along the first flow path (67) and the second flow path (83).

[0094] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a steam generating device in a clothing manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a steam generating device including a cross-section taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5 in a clothing manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a steam generating device in a clothing manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a front cross-sectional view illustrating a steam generating device in a clothing manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a water level detection sensor in a clothing manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a plate in a clothing manager according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] As shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, the steam generator (100) may include a case (110) configured to store water therein and a cover (120) coupled to the upper portion of the case (110).

[0096] The case (110) can receive water from the water tank (70) through the hose (68). That is, the water required to generate steam can be moved from the water tank (70) to the case (110) and stored.

[0097] The case (110) can be formed in a shape roughly like a rectangular parallelepiped. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0098] The case (110) can be combined with the cover (120) to form a storage space inside. The storage space formed by combining the case (110) and the cover (120) can store water necessary for generating steam.

[0099] The steam generator (100) may include a heater (130) placed inside the case (110) to heat water stored in the case (110).

[0100] The heater (130) may be installed adjacent to the bottom surface of the case (110) to heat water regardless of the high or low water level contained within the case (110). The heater (130) may be installed to directly heat water while completely submerged in water when water flows into the case (110).

[0101] The heater (130) may include a sheath heater with high thermal efficiency and capable of heating water in a relatively short period of time. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the heater (130) may include a coil heater that heats water stored inside the case (110) from the outside of the case (110).

[0102] The case (110) may be equipped with a separate temperature sensor (not shown) for measuring the temperature of water stored inside the case (110). In addition, the case (110) may be equipped with a heater temperature sensor (not shown), such as a thermofuse, to prevent the heater (130) from overheating and being damaged. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0103] The cover (120) may be formed with a water supply unit (140) connected to a hose (68) and a discharge unit (150) connected to a steam outlet (151) for heating water introduced into the interior of the case (110) with a heater (130) and supplying the generated steam to the management room (30).

[0104] The steam generator (100) is installed in the cover (120) and may include a water level detection sensor (160) configured to detect the internal water level of the case (110).

[0105] The water level detection sensor (160) may be configured to replenish water when the water level stored inside the case (110) is lower than a reference value. The water level detection sensor (160) may be connected to a control unit (not shown) to stop water supply and operate the heater (130) to generate steam when the water level stored inside the case (110) is higher than a reference value.

[0106] The water level detection sensor (160) may include an electrode (170) extending toward the bottom surface of the case (110). In addition, the water level detection sensor (160) may include a housing (180) that can support the electrode (170) and is detachably connected to the cover (120).

[0107] The electrode (170) can be installed at an appropriate height from the bottom surface of the case (110) to detect the water level to be stored inside the case (110).

[0108] The housing (180) can be fixed to the outside of the cover (120) using a bolt or the like. A socket portion (184) for electrical connection with a control unit (not shown) can be provided on the upper side of the housing (180).

[0109] The housing (180) may include a first housing (181) and a second housing (182). The first housing (181) and the second housing (182) may be coupled to each of both sides of the cover (120).

[0110] The electrode (170) may include a low-level electrode (171) that detects a low water level inside the case (110) and a high-level electrode (172) that detects a high water level inside the case (110).

[0111] The low-level electrode (171) may be placed on the upper part of the heater (130). The upper part of the low-level electrode (171) may be supported by the first housing (181), and the lower part of the low-level electrode (171) may be placed on the upper part of the heater (130) so as to be spaced apart from the heater (130).

[0112] The low-level electrode (171) may include a first detection unit (171a). The first detection unit (171a) is provided at the lower end of the low-level electrode (171) and can detect the water level inside the case (110).

[0113] The high-level electrode (172) may be placed on top of the heater (130). The upper part of the high-level electrode (172) may be supported by the second housing (182), and the lower part of the high-level electrode (172) may be placed on top of the heater (130) so as to be spaced apart from the heater (130).

[0114] The high-level electrode (172) may include a second detection unit (172a). The second detection unit (172a) is provided at the lower end of the high-level electrode (172) and can detect the water level inside the case (110).

[0115] The high-level electrode (172) may be formed to have a shorter length than the low-level electrode (171). According to this configuration, the second sensing unit (172a) may be provided above the first sensing unit (171a).

[0116] The electrode (170) may include a common electrode (173).

[0117] The common electrode (173) may be supported by the first housing (181). That is, the common electrode (173) may be provided on one side of the low-level electrode (171). In addition, the common electrode (173) may have the same length as the low-level electrode (171).

[0118] The common electrode (173) may include a third sensing unit (173a). The third sensing unit (173a) is provided at the lower end of the common electrode (173) and can detect the water level inside the case (110).

[0119] The common electrode (173) can be electrically connected to at least one of the low-level electrode (171) or the high-level electrode (172) via water. Through this configuration, the water level detection sensor (160) can detect the water level inside the case (110).

[0120] Below, a method for detecting the water level inside the case (110) by the water level detection sensor (160) of the clothing care device (1) according to the idea of ​​the present disclosure is briefly described.

[0121] First, water can be introduced into the case (110) through the water supply unit (140). The water introduced into the case (110) can be heated by the heater (130) and converted into steam.

[0122] Steam can be introduced into the management room (30) through the discharge port (150) of the case (110).

[0123] When the water inside the case (110) is full and reaches the full water level, the low-water level electrode (171), the high-water level electrode (172), and the common electrode (173) are all submerged in water and conduct electricity, so the control unit (not shown) can determine that this state is a high water level.

[0124] When the water inside the case (110) is exhausted and the water level reaches an intermediate level, the high-water level electrode (172) is exposed above the water surface and may not be electrically connected to the common electrode (173). At this time, the low-water level electrode (171) and the common electrode (173) are still submerged in water and electrically connected to each other, so the control unit (not shown) can determine this state as a low water level.

[0125] When the water inside the case (110) is almost exhausted and falls below the low water level, and both the common electrode (173) and the low water level electrode (171) are exposed to the air, electricity may not flow. Accordingly, the control unit (not shown) can determine whether the water level inside the case (110) is higher or lower than the low water level based on whether electricity flows.

[0126] The steam generator (100) may include a plate (111) provided on the lower side of the cover (120) to prevent water stored in the case (110) from touching the cover (120).

[0127] The plate (111) may be provided flat. The plate (111) may have a cross-section that is approximately rectangular. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0128] The plate (111) may be made of stainless steel, but is not limited thereto.

[0129] A plate (111) may be provided on the upper portion of a storage space formed by combining the case (110) with the cover (120). Through this configuration, the plate (111) can prevent water stored in the case (110) from touching the cover (120) provided on the upper portion of the case (110).

[0130] The water stored in the case (110) may be hard water containing a large amount of minerals. If the hard water is heated and collects on the inside of the case (110) or cover (120), scale may form on the inside of the case (110) or cover (120) due to the minerals contained in the hard water.

[0131] When scale is formed on the inside of the case (110) and the cover (120), a water film may be formed when the water stored in the case (110) comes into contact with the inside of the case (110) and the cover (120). When the water film is formed by connecting both the high-level electrode (172) and the common electrode (173), the high-level electrode (172) and the common electrode (173) may be electrically connected by the water film. That is, the water level detection sensor (160) may falsely detect the water level inside the case (110). As a result, even though the water level inside the case (110) is not a high level, the heater (130) may be operated to heat the inside of the case (110).

[0132] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the plate (111) can prevent scale from forming on the inside of the cover (120) and the case (110) by preventing water stored in the case (110) from coming into contact with the cover (120). This can prevent a water film from forming on the inside of the case (110) and the cover (120), and prevent the water level detection sensor (160) from erroneously detecting the water level.

[0133] The plate (111) may have a size wider than the size of the heater (130). Through this configuration, the plate (111) can prevent water heated by the heater (130) from splashing up and touching the cover (120).

[0134] The plate (111) may be placed spaced apart from the cover (120). Specifically, the plate (111) may be placed spaced apart from the lower surface of the cover (120).

[0135] The plate (111) may be placed spaced apart from the bottom surface of the case (110). In addition, the plate (111) may be placed above the lower portion of the high-level electrode (172) and the second detection unit (172a) provided at the lower portion.

[0136] The distance at which the plate (111) is spaced from the cover (120) may be set to be shorter than the distance at which the plate (111) is spaced from the bottom surface of the case (110). That is, the plate (111) may be placed spaced apart from the cover (120) with only a predetermined distance from the cover (120). Preferably, the plate (111) may be placed at a distance of 5 mm or more from the cover (120).

[0137] Through this configuration, even if scale is formed on the plate (111), scale may not be formed on the cover (120). Accordingly, the high-level electrode (172) and the common electrode (173) can be prevented from being electrically connected due to the water film formed on the cover (120) and the case (110).

[0138] The plate (111) may be provided between the high-level electrode (172) and the low-level electrode (171). The plate (111) may be provided between the high-level electrode (172) and the low-level electrode (171), spaced apart from each of the high-level electrode (172) and the low-level electrode (171).

[0139] The plate (111) can be arranged at an angle with respect to the cover (120). Through this configuration, the plate (111) can cause water formed on the plate (111) to flow from the plate (111) into the inside of the case (110).

[0140] On the plate (111), water droplets that are heated by the heater (130) and splashed may form. In addition, water that is heated by the heater (130) and vaporized may condense and form water droplets on the plate (111). Through this process, water may form on the upper or lower portion of the plate (111), which may cause scale to form on the upper or lower portion of the plate (111).

[0141] Water formed on the upper part of the plate (111) can flow down into the case (110) by moving along the inclination direction of the plate (111) due to its own weight. Water formed on the lower part of the plate (111) can flow down into the case (110) by moving along the inclination direction of the plate (111) due to its own weight. In addition, water formed on the lower part of the plate (111) can fall down into the case (110) by its own weight without any significant movement.

[0142] That is, by placing the plate (111) at an angle with respect to the cover (120), the amount of scale that can be formed on the plate (111) can be reduced.

[0143] The inclination direction of the plate (111) may be formed in the opposite direction to the direction in which the steam outlet (151) is located. Through this configuration, water formed on the plate (111) can flow down from the plate (111) in the opposite direction to the direction in which the steam outlet (151) is located. However, the inclination direction of the plate (111) is not limited thereto.

[0144] The plate (111) may be provided spaced apart from the steam outlet (151). Through this configuration, steam generated from the steam generator (100) can be prevented from being blocked by the plate (111).

[0145] The steam generator (100) may include a fixing member (190) provided to fix the plate (111) to the cover (120). The plate (111) may be fixed and coupled to the cover (120) by the fixing member (190).

[0146] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a plate in a clothing manager according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] Below, the configuration other than the plate is the same as the above-described embodiment, so redundant description is omitted.

[0148] Referring to Fig. 11, the plate (211) may include a first inclined portion (212) and a second inclined portion (213). The second inclined portion (213) may be bent and extended obliquely from the first inclined portion (212).

[0149] Each of the first inclined portion (212) and the second inclined portion (213) may be formed to be inclined toward both sides of the plate (211). Specifically, the first inclined portion (212) may extend from one side of the plate (211) and extend in an upwardly inclined manner, and the second inclined portion (213) may be bent from the first inclined portion (212) and extend in a downwardly inclined manner. Consequently, the first inclined portion (212) and the second inclined portion (213) may be formed to be inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0150] The direction in which the first slope (212) or the second slope (213) is inclined with respect to the cover (120) may be arranged to be perpendicular to the direction in which the plate (211) is inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0151] The angle at which at least one of the first slope (212) or the second slope (213) is inclined with respect to the cover (120) may be arranged to be greater than the angle at which the plate (211) is inclined with respect to the cover (120). Through this configuration, water formed on the plate (211) can move more easily along the first slope (212) or the second slope (213) having a greater angle of inclination. In other words, water formed on the plate (211) can flow more easily into the interior of the case (110).

[0152] The plate (211) can be formed to be convex toward the upper side of the plate (211) by the first inclined portion (212) and the second inclined portion (213). Through this configuration, the plate (211) can cause water formed on the plate (211) to flow down to both sides of the plate (211).

[0153] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating a plate in a clothing manager according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0154] Below, the configuration other than the plate is the same as the above-described embodiment, so redundant description is omitted.

[0155] Referring to Fig. 12, the plate (311) may include a third inclined portion (312) and a fourth inclined portion (313). The fourth inclined portion (313) may be bent and extended obliquely from the third inclined portion (312).

[0156] Each of the third slope portion (312) and the fourth slope portion (313) may be formed to be inclined toward the center of the plate (311). Specifically, the third slope portion (312) may extend from one side of the plate (311) and extend downwardly, and the fourth slope portion (313) may be bent from the third slope portion (312) and extend upwardly. Consequently, the third slope portion (312) and the fourth slope portion (313) may be formed to be inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0157] The direction in which the third slope (312) or the fourth slope (313) is inclined with respect to the cover (120) may be arranged to be perpendicular to the direction in which the plate (311) is inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0158] The angle at which at least one of the third slope (312) or the fourth slope (313) is inclined with respect to the cover (120) may be arranged to be greater than the angle at which the plate (311) is inclined with respect to the cover (120). Through this configuration, water formed on the plate (311) can move more easily along the third slope (312) or the fourth slope (313) having a greater angle of inclination. In other words, water formed on the plate (311) can flow more easily into the inside of the case (110).

[0159] The plate (311) can be formed to be convex toward the lower side of the plate (311) by the third slope (312) and the fourth slope (313). Through this configuration, the plate (311) can cause water formed on the plate (311) to flow down to the central portion of the plate (311).

[0160] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a plate in a clothing manager according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0161] Below, the configuration other than the plate is the same as the above-described embodiment, so redundant description is omitted.

[0162] Referring to Fig. 13, the plate (411) may include a fifth inclined portion (412) and a sixth inclined portion (413). The sixth inclined portion (413) may be bent and extended obliquely from the fifth inclined portion (412).

[0163] The fifth inclined portion (412) may extend upwardly from a portion of the plate (411), and the sixth inclined portion (413) may be bent from the fifth inclined portion (412) and extend downwardly. Consequently, the fifth inclined portion (412) and the sixth inclined portion (413) may be provided to be inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0164] The direction in which the fifth slope (412) or the sixth slope (413) is inclined with respect to the cover (120) may be arranged to be perpendicular to the direction in which the plate (411) is inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0165] The angle at which at least one of the fifth slope (412) or the sixth slope (413) is inclined with respect to the cover (120) may be arranged to be greater than the angle at which the plate (411) is inclined with respect to the cover (120). Through this configuration, water formed on the plate (411) can move more easily along the fifth slope (412) or the sixth slope (413) having a greater angle of inclination. In other words, water formed on the plate (411) can flow more easily into the case (110).

[0166] The fifth slope (412) and the sixth slope (413) may be provided in multiples. In Fig. 14, a plate (411) having four fifth slopes (412) and four sixth slopes (413) is illustrated, but the number is not limited thereto.

[0167] A plurality of fifth slopes (412) and a plurality of sixth slopes (413) can be arranged alternately.

[0168] A clothing manager (1) according to the invention includes a main body (10) including a management room (30) for accommodating clothing, and a steam generator (100) configured to generate steam to be supplied to the management room (30). The steam generator (100) includes a case (110) for storing water for generating steam, and a cover (120) coupled to an upper portion of the case (110). In addition, the steam generator (100) includes a heater (130) disposed inside the case (110) for heating the water stored in the case (110), and a plate (111) provided on the lower side of the cover (120) for preventing the water stored in the case (110) from touching the cover (120). The plate (111) is disposed to be spaced apart from the cover (120).

[0169] The above plate (111) may be positioned apart from the bottom surface of the case (110). The distance at which the plate (111) is spaced apart from the cover (120) may be set to be shorter than the distance at which the plate (111) is spaced apart from the bottom surface of the case (110).

[0170] The above plate (111) can be arranged at an angle with respect to the cover (120) so that water formed on the plate (111) flows down from the plate (111) into the inside of the case (110).

[0171] The above steam generator (100) may further include a steam outlet (151). The plate (111) may be arranged at an angle with respect to the cover (120) so that water formed on the plate (111) flows away from the steam outlet (151).

[0172] The above plate (111) may be provided apart from the steam outlet (151) so that steam generated from the steam generator (100) is not blocked by the plate (111).

[0173] The above plate (111) may have a size larger than the size of the heater (130) to prevent water heated by the heater (130) from touching the cover (120).

[0174] The steam generator (100) may include a water level detection sensor (160) configured to detect the water level inside. The water level detection sensor (160) may include a housing (180) coupled with the cover (120) and an electrode (170) supported by the housing (180). The electrode (170) may include a low-level electrode (171) for detecting a low water level inside the case (110) and a high-level electrode (172) for detecting a high water level inside the case (110).

[0175] The above plate (111) may be provided between the high-water level electrode (172) and the low-water level electrode (171), spaced apart from each of the high-water level electrode (172) and the low-water level electrode (171).

[0176] A water level detection unit (172a) for detecting the water level inside the case (110) may be provided at the lower end of the high-level electrode (172). The plate (111) may be positioned above the water level detection unit (172a).

[0177] The above steam generator (100) may further include a fixing member (190) that fixes the plate (111) to the cover (120).

[0178] The above plate (211) may include a first inclined portion (212) and a second inclined portion (213) that is bent and extends inclinedly from the first inclined portion (212). The direction in which the plate (211) is inclined with respect to the cover (120) may be arranged to be perpendicular to the direction in which the first inclined portion (212) or the second inclined portion (213) is inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0179] The above plate (211) may be formed convexly toward the upper side of the plate (211) so that water formed on the plate (211) flows down to both ends of the plate (211).

[0180] The above plate (311) may be formed convexly toward the lower side of the plate (311) so that water formed on the plate (311) flows down to the central portion of the plate (311).

[0181] The angle at which at least one of the first inclined portion (212) or the second inclined portion (213) is inclined with respect to the cover (120) may be set to be greater than the angle at which the plate (211) is inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0182] The first slope portion (212) and the second slope portion (213) may be provided in multiple numbers. The plurality of first slope portions (212) and the plurality of second slope portions (213) may be provided alternately.

[0183] A clothing manager (1) according to the invention includes a main body (10) including a management room (30), a machine room (40) disposed below the management room (30), and a steam generator (100) disposed inside the machine room (40). The steam generator (100) includes a case (110) for storing water for generating steam, a low-level electrode (171) for detecting a low water level inside the case (110), and a water level detection sensor including a high-level electrode (172) for detecting a high water level inside the case (110). In addition, the steam generator (100) includes a plate (111) disposed above a water level detection unit (172a) provided at a lower portion of the high-level electrode (172).

[0184] The above steam generator (100) may further include a cover (120) to which the plate (111) is fixed and coupled.

[0185] The above plate (111) may be arranged at an angle with respect to the bottom surface of the case (110) so that water formed on the plate (111) flows down from the plate (111) into the inside of the case (110).

[0186] The above plate (111) may be provided spaced apart from the lower side of the cover (120) so that water stored in the case (110) does not touch the cover (120).

[0187] A clothing manager (1) according to the invention comprises a main body (10) including a management room (30) for accommodating clothing, and a steam generator (100) configured to generate steam to be supplied to the management room (30). The steam generator (100) comprises a cover (120), a case (110) coupled with the cover (120) to form a storage space therein, and a plate (111) provided on an upper portion of the storage space so that water stored in the storage space does not touch the cover (120). The plate (111) is arranged to be inclined with respect to the cover (120).

[0188] According to the invention, a plate provided on the lower side of the cover can prevent water from splashing onto the cover, thereby preventing scale from forming inside the steam generator.

[0189] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, by preventing a water film from forming inside the steam generator, it is possible to prevent false detection of the water level inside the steam generator.

[0190] 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 can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0191] 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 main body including a management office for accommodating clothing; and Includes a steam generating device configured to generate steam to be supplied to the above management room, The above steam generating device, A case for storing water for generating steam; A cover coupled to the upper part of the above case; a heater disposed inside the case to heat the water stored in the case; and Including a plate provided on the lower side of the cover to prevent water stored in the case from touching the cover, A clothing manager in which the above plate is placed spaced apart from the above cover.

2. In paragraph 1, The above plate is placed apart from the bottom surface of the case, A clothing manager, wherein the distance at which the plate is spaced from the cover is shorter than the distance at which the plate is spaced from the bottom surface of the case.

3. In paragraph 1, A clothing manager in which the plate is arranged at an angle with respect to the cover so that water formed on the plate flows down from the plate into the interior of the case.

4. In paragraph 3, The above steam generating device further includes a steam outlet, A clothing manager in which the plate is arranged at an angle with respect to the cover so that water formed on the plate flows away from the steam outlet.

5. In paragraph 4, A clothing manager in which the above plate is provided away from the steam outlet so that steam generated from the steam generator is not blocked by the plate.

6. In paragraph 1, A clothing manager wherein the plate has a size larger than that of the heater to prevent water heated by the heater from touching the cover.

7. In paragraph 1, The above steam generator includes a water level detection sensor configured to detect the water level inside, The above water level sensor, a housing coupled with the above cover; and comprising an electrode supported by the above housing, A clothing care device including a low-level electrode for detecting a low water level inside the case and a high-level electrode for detecting a high water level inside the case.

8. In paragraph 7, A clothing manager in which the above plate is provided between the high-water level electrode and the low-water level electrode, and spaced apart from each of the high-water level electrode and the low-water level electrode.

9. In paragraph 7, A water level detection unit for detecting the water level inside the case is provided at the lower end of the above high-level electrode. A clothing manager wherein the above plate is positioned above the water level detection unit.

10. In paragraph 1, A clothing manager wherein the steam generating device further includes a fixing member for fixing the plate to the cover.

11. In paragraph 3, The above plate includes a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion that is bent and extends obliquely from the first inclined portion, A clothing manager in which the direction in which the plate is inclined with respect to the cover is provided so as to be perpendicular to the direction in which the first inclined portion or the second inclined portion is inclined with respect to the cover.

12. In paragraph 11, A clothing care device in which the plate is formed convexly on the upper side of the plate so that water formed on the plate flows down to both ends of the plate.

13. In paragraph 11, A clothing care device in which the plate is formed convexly toward the lower side of the plate so that water formed on the plate flows down to the center of the plate.

14. In paragraph 11, A clothing manager, wherein at least one of the first inclined portion or the second inclined portion is inclined at an angle greater than the angle at which the plate is inclined at the cover.

15. In paragraph 11, The above first slope and the above second slope are provided in multiples, A clothing management machine in which the plurality of first slopes and the plurality of second slopes are provided alternately.

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