Clothes treating apparatus

Abstract

This clothes treating apparatus comprises: a housing; a tub within the housing, the tub having an air inlet for air supply and an air outlet for air discharge; a drying device for removing moisture from air supplied through the air outlet, heating the air, and supplying the heated air to the tub through the air inlet; and a detergent supply module. The detergent supply module comprises: a base frame; a drain pump having a drain pump outlet; a circulation pump having a circulation pump inlet; a mixing case having a mixing flow passage connecting the drain pump outlet to the circulation pump inlet; and a detergent pump in the mixing case, the detergent pump being configured to be able to supply detergent to the mixing flow passage. The base frame is detachably mounted in the housing such that the detergent supply module is detachably mounted into the housing below the tub.

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. The washing machine may include a combined washing machine and dryer.

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

[0004] The cycles performed by the dryer-type 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 a washing machine with a dryer may include a drying cycle in which heat generated by a drying device is blown into a space containing laundry to dry laundry. The washing machine with a dryer may include a drying device to perform the drying cycle.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment treatment device having easy maintenance and / or repair of components.

[0007] 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.

[0008] In the spirit of the present disclosure, a clothing treatment device includes a housing having a laundry inlet, a tub inside the housing, the tub having an air inlet for supplying air to the tub and an air outlet for discharging air from the tub, a drying device located on an upper portion of the tub for removing moisture from air supplied through the air outlet, heating the air, and supplying the heated air to the tub through the air inlet, and a detergent supply module. The detergent supply module includes a base frame, a drain pump located on the base frame having a drain pump outlet, a circulation pump located on the base frame having a circulation pump inlet, a mixing case located on the base frame having a mixing channel connecting the drain pump outlet and the circulation pump inlet, and a detergent pump located on the mixing case and configured to supply detergent to the mixing channel. The base frame is detachably mounted to the housing such that the detergent supply module is detachably mounted inside the housing from below the tub.

[0009] A garment treatment device according to the invention comprises a housing in which a laundry inlet is formed, a tub provided inside the housing and for storing wash water, a detergent supply module disposed at a lower portion of the tub and mounted on the housing, and a detergent box detachably mounted on the housing and dockable with the detergent supply module. The detergent supply module comprises a base frame mounted on the housing, a drain pump and a circulation pump mounted on the base frame, a mixing case mounted on the base frame between the drain pump and the circulation pump, the mixing case being capable of accommodating at least a portion of the detergent box and forming a mixing channel, and a detergent pump mounted on the mixing case, the detergent pump being dockable with the detergent box and configured to suck detergent from the detergent box and supply it to the mixing channel when docked with the detergent box.

[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a part of a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates 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.

[0014] FIG. 5 is an exploded view showing a part of a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates a state in which the lower door of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is open.

[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates a state in which a detergent container is separated from a housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8 is an exploded view showing a detergent box separated from a housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and a partial configuration of a lower door.

[0018] FIG. 9 is an exploded view showing a portion of a housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a detergent supply module of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 11 illustrates the coupling relationship between a mixing case and a detergent pump of a detergent supply module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 12 illustrates a view of a detergent supply module of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure being mounted in a housing.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a rear view of a detergent supply module mounted on a housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 14 shows a cross-section along line A-A' shown in Figure 13.

[0024] FIG. 15 illustrates a detergent supply module from the rear according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 16 shows a cross-section along the line B-B' shown in Figure 15.

[0026] FIG. 17 illustrates a state in which the lower door of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is open.

[0027] FIG. 18 is an exploded view showing a portion of a lower door and a detergent compartment separated from a housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 19 shows a cross-section along the line C-C' shown in Figure 17.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0060] The washing machine may include a communication module 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] Hereinafter, various embodiments of a garment treatment device will be specifically described with reference to the attached drawings. While a washing machine / dryer is described as an example of a garment treatment device, the concepts of the present disclosure are not limited to washing machines / dryers, and can be applied to various devices for treating and / or managing garments.

[0069] The terms “front,” “rear,” “left,” and “right” used in the description below are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0070] For example, the X-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction, the Y-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction.

[0071] FIG. 1 illustrates a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a portion of a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of a portion of a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may include a housing (10) that accommodates various components therein. The housing (10) may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet (11) formed on one side. The laundry inlet (11) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0073] The garment treatment device (1) may include a laundry door (17) for opening and closing the laundry inlet (11). The laundry door (17) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (10) by a hinge. At least a portion of the laundry door (17) may be transparent or translucent so as to allow the interior of the housing (10) to be visible. For example, the laundry door (17) may include tempered glass.

[0074] The garment treatment device (1) may include a lower door (18) configured to allow access to a lower detergent supply device (60). The garment treatment device (1) may include an upper door (19) configured to allow access to an upper detergent supply device (50) and a filter (95).

[0075] 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 (21) formed on one side, and may be arranged inside the housing (10) so that the tub opening (21) corresponds to the laundry inlet (11). The tub opening (21) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0076] The tub (20) can be connected to the housing (10) by a damper (25). The damper (25) can absorb vibrations generated when the drum (30) rotates and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing (10).

[0077] A clothing treatment device (1) may include a drum (30) configured to accommodate laundry. At least one lifter (33) may be provided inside the drum (30) to perform washing by raising and lowering laundry.

[0078] The drum (30) may be placed inside the tub (20) such that the drum opening (31) provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet (11) and the tub opening (21). Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet (11), the tub opening (21) and the drum opening (31) in sequence to be accommodated inside the drum (30) or taken out from the drum (30). The drum opening (31) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0079] 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 (32) 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).

[0080] The garment treatment device (1) may include a driving device (36) configured to rotate a drum (30). The driving device (36) may include a driving motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the driving motor to the drum (30). The rotating shaft may pass through the tub (20) and be connected to the drum (30).

[0081] The driving device (36) can rotate the drum (30) forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0082] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a water supply device (40) configured to supply water to the tub (20). The water supply device (40) may include a water supply valve (41, 42) that can be connected to an external water source. For example, the water supply valve (41, 42) may include a hot water valve (41) for supplying hot water and a cold water valve (42) for supplying cold water.

[0083] The water supply device (40) may include a water supply pipe (43, 44). The water supply pipe (43, 44) may be connected to a water supply valve (41, 42). For example, the water supply pipe (43, 44) may be provided as a hose or pipe made of a flexible material.

[0084] For example, the water supply pipes (43, 44) may include a hot water pipe (43) connected to a hot water valve (41) and a cold water pipe (44) connected to a cold water valve (42). At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) may guide water from the water supply valve (41, 42) to the tub (20). At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) may extend from the water supply valve (62) to the tub (20). Water may be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (60) via the tub (20). Water may also be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (60) without passing through the tub (20).

[0085] The water supply valves (41, 42) can open or close the water supply pipes (43, 44) in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valves (41, 42) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (20). The water supply valves (41, 42) can include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0086] The garment treatment device (1) may include a detergent supply device (50, 60) configured to supply detergent to the tub (20). The detergent supply device (50, 60) may include an upper detergent supply device (50) and a lower detergent supply device (60). The term "detergent" may be used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.

[0087] The upper detergent supply device (50) may be located at the upper part of the tub (20). The upper detergent supply device (50) may be located above the tub (20) in the vertical direction. The upper detergent supply device (50) may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to add detergent for each wash, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during the wash. The upper detergent supply device (50) may be connected to the tub (20) via a detergent connection pipe (51). For example, the upper detergent supply device (50) may be provided to supply solid detergent and / or fabric softener to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described examples.

[0088] The lower detergent supply device (60) may be located at the bottom of the tub (20). The lower detergent supply device (60) may be located vertically lower than the tub (20). The lower detergent supply device (60) may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to add detergent for each wash, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during the wash. For example, the lower detergent supply device (60) may be provided to supply liquid detergent and / or fabric softener to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described examples.

[0089] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a drainage device (70) configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20) to the outside. The drainage device (70) may include a drainage pump (71) for discharging water in the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10).

[0090] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a circulation pump (76) to circulate water in the tub (20) back to the tub (20) through the lower detergent supply device (86).

[0091] The drainage device (70) can be connected to the tub (20) through a tub connection pipe (72). The drainage device (70) can discharge water from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10) through a drain pipe (73).

[0092] The garment treatment device (1) may include a control panel (15) arranged on one side of the housing (10). The control panel (15) may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the garment treatment device (1). The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0093] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0094] 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.

[0095] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the garment treatment device (1) to the user.

[0096] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the washing course and the operating time of the garment treatment device (1), and washing settings / rinsing settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the garment treatment device can be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0097] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a drying device (80) for drying laundry accommodated inside a drum (30). The drying device (80) may be configured to heat air and supply it to the inside of a tub (20). The drying device (80) may be configured to dry and heat air discharged from the tub (20) and circulate the dried and heated air into the inside of the tub (20) to dry clothing inside the drum (30). The drying device (80) according to various embodiments may be arranged on top of the tub (20).

[0098] The drying device (80) may include a drying case (81) in which a heat pump for drying air may be installed. The drying case (81) may include a drying base (81a) and a drying cover (81b) that is coupled to the drying base (81a) and is provided to form a path through which air can move. The drying cover (81b) may cover the open upper surface of the drying base (81a).

[0099] Referring to FIG. 5, as an example, the drying device (80) may include a rear cover (81c) that is attachable to the rear side of the drying base (81a). The rear cover (81c) may form at least a portion of the rear of the drying device (80). A water supply valve (41, 42) may be mounted on the rear cover (81c).

[0100] A drying device (80) according to various embodiments may be configured as a heat pump. The drying device (80) may include a compressor (91), a condenser (92), an evaporator (93), an expansion valve, and a refrigerant pipe (94) through which a refrigerant circulates. The compressor (91), the condenser (92), the evaporator (93), etc., which constitute the heat pump, may be placed in a drying case (81). For example, the drying device (80) may include a cooling fan (91a) for cooling the compressor (91). As an example, the drying device (80) may be mounted as a single module.

[0101] The compressor (91) compresses the refrigerant, and the compressed high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant can move to the condenser (92). The condenser (92) can cool the refrigerant and heat the surrounding air. The heated air can be introduced into the drum (30) to dry clothes.

[0102] The refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve can absorb heat in the evaporator (93) and cool the surrounding air. That is, the evaporator (93) can cool the high-temperature, humid air that has passed through the inside of the drum (30) and remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed passes through the condenser (92) and can be heated again while exchanging heat with the refrigerant passing through the condenser (92). That is, the condenser (92) can heat the air that has passed through the evaporator (93). The condenser (92) and the evaporator (93) can be referred to as a heat exchanger.

[0103] For example, the drying device (80) may further include a drying heater (99). The drying heater (99) may increase the drying efficiency of the drying device (80). For example, the drying device (80) may also replace heat pump components with the drying heater (99).

[0104] The drying heater (99) can heat the air flowing into the interior of the drying device (80). The drying heater (99) can be placed in the heating path (86). The drying heater (99) can be placed downstream from the condenser (92) along the flow of air passing through the drying device (80). In addition, the drying heater (99) can be provided in a relatively small size so as to minimize the resistance of the path. For example, the drying heater (99) can be a sheath heater.

[0105] A drying device (80) according to various embodiments may be placed on the upper side of the tub (20). An inlet passage (85) through which air discharged from the tub (20) flows may be formed in the drying device (80). A heating passage (86) may be formed in the drying device (80) for heat exchange with air flowing into the drying device (80) through the inlet passage (85). A supply passage (87) may be formed in the drying device (80) for supplying air that has passed through the heating passage (86) and has undergone heat exchange to the tub (20).

[0106] An inlet passage (85) may be provided so that air passing through the interior of the tub (20) may be introduced into the drying device (80). The inlet passage (85) may be located on the upper side of the tub (20). The inlet passage (85) may be connected to an exhaust passage (P) formed at the rear of the tub (20).

[0107] The drying device (80) may include an inlet guide (84) connected to the tub (20). The inlet guide (84) may guide air discharged from the tub (20) to an inlet passage (85). The inlet passage (85) may be communicated with an exhaust passage (P) formed in the tub (20) through the inlet guide (84). Air passing through the exhaust passage (P) may be introduced into the inlet passage (85) of the drying device (80) through the inlet guide (84).

[0108] A filter (95) may be provided in the inlet passage (85) 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 (85) may pass through the filter (95) and then move to the heating passage (86). The filter (95) may be located on the passage through which the air flowing into the drying device (80) moves to the evaporator (93) and the condenser (92).

[0109] A condenser (92) and an evaporator (93) may be arranged in the heating passage (86). The air flowing into the heating passage (86) may be humid because it has passed through the interior of the tub (20). The humid air may be cooled in the evaporator (93) arranged in the heating passage (86) to remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed in the evaporator (93) may be reheated by passing through the condenser (92).

[0110] The drying device (80) may include a nozzle device (96) for washing the condenser (92) and / or the evaporator (93). The nozzle device (96) may be provided in the heating passage (86). The nozzle device (96) may receive water from the water supply device (40) and spray the washing water toward the condenser (92) and / or the evaporator (93).

[0111] Meanwhile, a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a drain line (97) for guiding water discharged from a drying device (80). The drain line (97) may guide condensate generated in a heat exchanger of the drying device (80) to the outside of the drying device (80). The drain line (97) may guide washing water sprayed by a nozzle device (96) for washing the heat exchanger to the outside of the drying device (80). The drain line (97) may be connected to a drain device (70). Water discharged from the drying device (80) may flow to the drain device (70) along the drain line (97). Water flowing into the drain device (70) through the drain line (97) may be discharged to the outside of the clothing treatment device (1).

[0112] The supply path (87) may be arranged to supply heated air back into the interior of the tub (20) by passing through the condenser (92). The supply path (87) may be connected to the heating path (86) and may extend downward to discharge heated air toward the opening of the tub (20).

[0113] A supply fan (87a) may be provided in the supply path (87) to allow air to flow into the interior of the tub (20). That is, the supply fan (87a) may be provided to supply air to the laundry inside the drum (30). For example, the supply fan (87a) may include a sirocco fan.

[0114] The inlet path (85), the heating path (86), and the supply path (87) can circulate air into the interior of the tub (20) and the drying device (80).

[0115] A clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be arranged so that air discharged from a tub (20) sequentially passes through an inlet passage (85), a heating passage (86), and a supply passage (87) of a drying device (80) located on the upper side of the tub (20), and then is supplied into the interior of the tub (20).

[0116] Heated air from the drying device (80) can be supplied into the interior of the drum (30). In order to secure an area where the heated air supplied into the interior of the drum (30) comes into contact with the laundry, the tub exhaust port (27) may be provided at a position opposite to the air inlet (26) through which the heated air from the drying device (90) is supplied to the tub (20). In order to increase the distance and / or time that the heated air flows inside the drum (30) so that it can come into more contact with the laundry, the tub exhaust port (27) may be provided at a position opposite to the air inlet (26) through which the heated air from the drying device (80) is supplied to the tub (20). The supply path (87) for supplying the heated air into the interior of the drum (30) and the tub exhaust port (27) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. By increasing the area where the heated air comes into contact with the laundry, the drying efficiency can be improved.

[0117] The air inlet (26) and the tub exhaust port (27) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be positioned to maximize the use of heated air provided from the drying device (80). For example, the air inlet (26) may be positioned adjacent to the front of the tub (20), and the tub exhaust port (27) may be positioned adjacent to the rear of the tub (20).

[0118] The clothing treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may further include an exhaust path (P) for allowing air discharged from the inside of the tub (20) to flow to the drying device (80). The exhaust path (P) may be provided so that air discharged from the tub exhaust port (27) flows to the inlet path (85) of the drying device (80). The exhaust path (P) may be provided so as to discharge moist air that has passed through the tub (20). For example, the exhaust path (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20).

[0119] The air inside the tub (20) can be discharged to the tub duct (28) through the tub exhaust port (27) formed at the rear of the tub (20). The air discharged to the tub duct (28) can flow along the exhaust path (P) and be supplied to the drying device (80).

[0120] The garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may include a tub duct (28) for forming at least a portion of an exhaust path (P). For example, the tub duct (28) may be formed integrally with the tub (20). For example, the tub (20) may include the tub duct (28). The tub duct (28) may be provided to surround the tub exhaust port (27).

[0121] The garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may include a duct cover (29) for forming at least a portion of an exhaust path (P). The duct cover (29) may be provided to cover an open rear surface of a tub duct (28). For example, the tub (20) may include the duct cover (29). The duct cover (29) may form at least a portion of an exhaust path (P) through which air discharged through the tub exhaust port (27) flows to the drying device (80).

[0122] According to various embodiments, a clothing treatment device (1) can form an exhaust path (P) by combining a duct cover (29) with a tub duct (28).

[0123] According to one embodiment, a tub duct (28) may include a recessed portion (28a) that forms a portion of an exhaust path (P) through which air discharged from the inside of the tub (20) flows. A reinforcing rib (23) for reinforcing the rigidity of the tub (20) may be provided on the back surface of the tub (20), and the recessed portion (28a) may be provided as a portion that is recessed from an end of the reinforcing rib (23) protruding from the back surface of the tub (20). The recessed portion (28a) may be provided as a portion of the back surface of the tub (20) where the reinforcing rib (23) is not formed. A tub exhaust port (27) for discharging air from the inside of the tub (20) may be formed in the recessed portion (28a). The tub duct (28) may include a partition rib (28d) provided along the periphery of the recessed portion (28a). The partition rib (28d) can separate the area where the reinforcing rib (23) is formed and the area where the recessed portion (28a) is formed on the back surface of the tub (20).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the tub duct (28) may include a duct connection portion (28b) that forms another portion of the exhaust path (P) through which air passing through the recess portion (28a) flows. The duct connection portion (28b) may protrude outwardly from the outer surface of the tub (20). The duct connection portion (28b) may protrude approximately upwardly from the outer surface of the tub (20).

[0125] The duct connection portion (28b) can connect the drying device (80) and the recessed portion (28a). The duct connection portion (28b) can be connected to the inlet guide (84) of the drying device (80). The duct connection portion (28b) can form a single passage that forms an exhaust path (P) together with the recessed portion (28a) and the duct cover (29).

[0126] The duct connection portion (28b) may be covered by a duct cover (29). The duct connection portion (28b) may have one side open. The duct cover (29) may cover the open side of the duct connection portion (28b).

[0127] The duct cover (29) can cover both the recessed portion (28a) and the duct connection portion (28b). For example, the duct cover (29) can cover both the open side of the recessed portion (28a) and the open side of the duct connection portion (28b). An exhaust path (P) can be formed by the duct cover (29) covering the recessed portion (28a) and the duct connection portion (28b). For example, the duct cover (29) can cover only the recessed portion (28a).

[0128] The duct cover (29) may be provided to cover the open rear surface of the recessed portion (28a) and / or the open rear surface of the duct connection portion (28b). The exhaust passage (P) may be a single passage formed by the tub duct (28) and the duct cover (29).

[0129] The tub duct (28) may include a step portion (28c) 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 (28b) is larger than the width of the portion formed in the recess portion (28a) by the step portion (28c).

[0130] The water supply valves (41, 42) of the clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can be positioned by utilizing the space left by the mounting structure. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water supply valves (41, 42) can be mounted between the inlet guide (84) and the cooling fan (91a). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be positioned at the center of the rear of the drying device (80). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be positioned at the rear of the condenser (92). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be positioned in an area separated from a flow path through which drying air flows. The positions of the water supply valves (41, 42) are not limited thereto.

[0131] Meanwhile, a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a washing water heater (24). The washing water heater (24) is provided at the lower side of the tub (20) and can heat the washing water during washing. In addition, the water supply device (40) can supply a certain amount of water to the lower side of the tub (20) through the exhaust passage (P) during the drying cycle, and the washing water heater (24) can heat the water supplied into the interior of the tub (20) through the water supply device (40), the exhaust passage (P), and the tub exhaust port (27) to generate steam. That is, the steam generated by the water supply device (40) and the washing water heater (24) can come into contact with the clothing during the drying cycle, thereby preventing wrinkles from forming on the clothing as much as possible.

[0132] That is, the clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a washing / drying combined washing machine, which, unlike a conventional dryer, may include a washing water heater (24) for heating washing water, and may generate steam by utilizing the washing water heater (24) and a water supply device (40) for cleaning the exhaust duct (P), thereby preventing wrinkles from forming on clothing during the drying cycle as much as possible.

[0133] Fig. 6 illustrates a state in which the lower door of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is open. Fig. 7 illustrates a state in which the detergent compartment is separated from the housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 illustrates an exploded view of a detergent compartment and a portion of the lower door separated from the housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the lower detergent supply device (60) may be referred to as a detergent supply device (60).

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided so that a detergent supply device (60) can be accessible by opening a lower door (18). For example, the lower door (18) may be rotatably mounted on a housing (10). The lower end of the lower door (18) may be rotatably coupled to the housing (10) and may rotate with respect to the housing (10) with the lower end as a rotation axis. When a detergent box (601) is mounted on the housing (10), the lower door (18) may be provided to cover the detergent box (601).

[0136] The lower door (18) may include a door latch (18a) that is fixed to the housing (10) so as not to be opened when it is in a position to cover the detergent supply device (60). For example, the clothes treatment device (1) may include a lower door opening / closing device configured to engage or disengage the door latch (18a). For example, when closing the lower door (18) in an open state, the door latch (18a) may be coupled to the lower door opening / closing device by pressing a portion where the door latch (18a) is positioned toward the lower door opening / closing device, and when opening the lower door (18) in a closed state, the door latch (18a) may be separated from the lower door opening / closing device by pressing a portion where the door latch (18a) is positioned toward the lower door opening / closing device.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 8, the lower door (18) may include a door body (181) and a door cover (182) coupled to the front of the door body (181). Unlike as shown in FIG. 8, the lower door (18) may be formed integrally with the door body (181) and the door cover (182).

[0138] For example, the lower door (18) may include a door reinforcement member (183) to reinforce the strength of the lower door (18). The door reinforcement member (183) may include a material having greater strength than the door body (181) and / or the door cover (182).

[0139] The garment treatment device (1) may include a door hinge (184) for rotatably mounting the lower door (18) to the housing (10). The door hinge (184) may be fixed to the housing (10), and the lower door (18) may be rotatably coupled to the door hinge (184). For example, the door hinge (184) may be fixed to the lower frame (101) and / or the lower bracket (106) of the housing (10). The door hinge (184) may be provided to support the rotation of the lower door (18).

[0140] The detergent supply device (60) of the garment treatment device (1) may include a detergent box (601) for containing detergent. The detergent box (601) may be detachably mounted on the lower frame (101). The detergent box (601) may be provided so that it is accessible to the user when the lower door (18) is opened.

[0141] For example, the detergent box (601) may include a first detergent box (601a) and a second detergent box (601b). The first detergent box (601a) and the second detergent box (601b) may be used to store different detergents, or alternatively, may be used to store the same detergent.

[0142] The detergent box (601) may include a detergent box body (602) and a detergent box cover (603) detachably connected to the detergent box body (602). The detergent box body (602) may have a box shape with an open upper side, and the detergent box cover (603) may be provided to cover the open upper side of the detergent box body (602).

[0143] The detergent box (601) may include a detergent box lid (604) that is provided to cover an opening for introducing detergent into the interior of the detergent box (601) when the detergent box cover (603) is coupled to the detergent box body (602). An opening for introducing detergent into the detergent box (601) may be formed in the detergent box cover (603), and the detergent box lid (604) may be provided to cover the opening formed in the detergent box cover (603).

[0144] FIG. 9 is an exploded view showing a portion of a housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 9, the housing (10) of the garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a lower frame (101) and a lower bracket (106). The lower frame (101) and the lower bracket (106) may be provided as separate components, but are not limited thereto, and the lower frame (101) and the lower bracket (106) may also be provided as an integral part.

[0146] The lower frame (101) may be provided to cover the front of the detergent supply module (110) mounted on the bottom plate (10a). The lower frame (101) may be provided at the front of the detergent supply module (110) to mount a detergent box (601). The lower frame (101) may form a space for accommodating the detergent box (601). The lower frame (101) may be coupled to the front of the lower bracket (106). A door hinge (184) may be mounted on the lower frame (101).

[0147] The drainage device (70) may include a drainage filter (74) for filtering foreign substances from water passing through the drainage device (70). The lower frame (101) may include a filter opening (102) through which the drainage filter (74) of the drainage device (70) can pass. When the detergent box (601) is separated from the lower frame (101), the drainage filter (74) may be exposed to the outside. With the detergent box (601) separated from the lower frame (101), a user may access the drainage filter (74) to maintain and / or repair the drainage filter (74).

[0148] The lower frame (101) may include a detergent box opening (103) through which a portion of the detergent box (601) may pass. When the detergent box (601) is mounted on the lower frame (101), the detergent box (601) may be connected to the detergent supply module (110) by having a portion pass through the detergent box opening (103).

[0149] The lower frame (101) may include a detergent box guide (104) for guiding the detergent box (601) to the mounting position when the detergent box (601) is mounted. The detergent box guide (104) may be formed such that a portion thereof protrudes from the inner space of the lower frame (101) for accommodating the detergent box (601). The detergent box (601) may be guided by the detergent box guide (104) and mounted on the lower frame (101).

[0150] The lower bracket (106) may be mounted on the bottom plate (10a) of the housing (10). The lower bracket (106) may be provided to cover the front of the detergent supply module (110). The door hinge (184) may be mounted on the lower bracket (106). For example, the lower bracket (106) may include a material having greater strength than the lower frame (101). The lower bracket (106) may be provided between the detergent supply module (110) and the lower frame (101).

[0151] The lower bracket (106) may include a filter passage (107) formed to be accessible to the drain filter (74) of the drainage device (70). The filter passage (107) may be provided at a position corresponding to the filter opening (102). For example, the filter passage (107) may be provided with a size equal to or larger than the filter opening (102).

[0152] The lower bracket (106) may include a detergent box passage portion (108) through which a portion of the detergent box (601) may pass. The detergent box passage portion (108) may be provided at a position corresponding to the detergent box opening (103). For example, the detergent box passage portion (108) may be provided with a size equal to or larger than the detergent box opening (103).

[0153] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a detergent supply module of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 illustrates the coupling relationship between a mixing case and a detergent pump of a detergent supply module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 illustrates a view of a detergent supply module of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure being mounted on a housing.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 10, the detergent supply device (60) of the clothing treatment device (1) may include a detergent pump (610) connectable to a detergent box (601) and a mixing case (620) for mounting the detergent pump (610). The detergent pump (610) may be located at the rear of the mixing case (620). The mixing case (620) may be connected to a drain pump (71) of a drainage device (70). The mixing case (620) may be connected to a circulation pump (76). The mixing case (620) may include a detergent box space (620s) for accommodating a portion of the detergent box (601) when the detergent box (601) is mounted on the housing (10).

[0155] The drain pump (71) of the drainage device (70) may be provided to discharge water discharged from the tub (20) to the mixing case (620) or to the outside of the housing (10).

[0156] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a garment treatment device (1) may be provided with components for automatically supplying detergent to a tub (20) as a single module. For example, the garment treatment device (1) may be provided with a drainage device (70), a circulation pump (76), a detergent pump (610), and a mixing case (620) as a single module. The garment treatment device (1) may include a detergent supply module (110) in which the drainage device (70), the circulation pump (76), the detergent pump (610), and the mixing case (620) are provided as a single module. The detergent supply module (110) may be provided to add detergent to wash water to be supplied to the tub (20). The detergent supply module (110) may be arranged at the lower portion of the tub (20). The detergent supply module (110) may be detachably mounted on the housing (10).

[0157] The detergent supply module (110) may include a base frame (111) to be mounted on the bottom plate (10a) of the housing (10). A drainage device (70), a circulation pump (76), a detergent pump (610), and a mixing case (620) may be mounted on the base frame (111). The detergent supply module (110) may be provided as a single module, as the drainage device (70), the circulation pump (76), the detergent pump (610), and the mixing case (620) are mounted on the base frame (111). The detergent supply module (110) provided as a single module can be easily separated from the bottom plate (10a) for maintenance and / or repair, and can be easily mounted on the bottom plate (10a).

[0158] The drain pump (71) and circulation pump (76) of the drainage device (70) can be mounted on the base frame (111). The mixing case (620) can be mounted on the base frame (111) between the drainage pump (71) and circulation pump (76) of the drainage device (70).

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the mixing case (620) may include a guide engaging portion (629) for guiding the mounting of the detergent box (601) so that the detergent box (601) can be docked with the detergent pump (610). When the detergent box (601) is mounted on the lower frame (101) of the housing (10), at least a portion thereof may be accommodated in the mixing case (620), and when at least a portion thereof is accommodated in the mixing case (620), the detergent box (601) may include a docking guide (609) for being coupled to the guide engaging portion (629). As an example, the docking guide (609) may have a protruding shape and the guide engaging portion (629) may have a groove shape, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the docking guide (609) may have a groove shape and the guide engaging portion (629) may have a protruding shape. The guide coupling portion (629) of the mixing case (620) can be combined with the docking guide (609) to guide the docking of the detergent suction portion (611) and the docking portion (606) when the detergent container (601) is mounted on the housing (10).

[0160] The detergent pump (610) may be arranged to be docked with the detergent compartment (601). The detergent suction portion (611) of the detergent pump (610) may be docked with the docking portion (606) of the detergent compartment (601). When the detergent suction portion (611) of the detergent pump (610) is docked with the docking portion (606) of the detergent compartment (601), the detergent pump (610) may suck up the detergent stored in the detergent compartment (601).

[0161] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the mixing case (620) may include a suction opening (621) through which the detergent suction portion (611) of the detergent pump (610) can pass. When the detergent pump (610) is mounted at the rear of the mixing case (620), the detergent suction portion (611) may be positioned in a space (620a) for receiving a portion of the detergent compartment (601) of the mixing case (620) by passing through the suction opening (621). Since the detergent suction portion (611) is positioned in the detergent compartment space (620s) for receiving a portion of the detergent compartment (601), it is connected to the detergent compartment (601) and can suck up the detergent in the detergent compartment (601).

[0162] The mixing case (620) may include a discharge opening (622) into which a detergent discharge portion (612) of a detergent pump (610) can be inserted. When the detergent pump (610) is mounted on the mixing case (620), the detergent pump (610) can discharge detergent into a mixing path (623) formed in the mixing case (620) through the discharge opening (622). The detergent pump (610) can supply detergent to the mixing path (623). The mixing path (623) can be provided between the mixing inlet (624) and the mixing outlet (625).

[0163] The mixing case (620) may include a detachable tray (627). When the detergent pump (610) and the detergent compartment (601) are undocked, residual detergent or mixed water in the detergent suction unit (611) may fall down. At this time, the residual detergent or mixed water falls into the tray (627), and the user can clean only by detaching the tray (627).

[0164] The mixing case (620) may be connected to a drainage device (70). The mixing case (620) may include a mixing inlet (624) for connecting to a drainage pump (71) of the drainage device (70). The detergent supply module (110) may include a drainage connection pipe (121) for connecting the drainage pump (71) of the drainage device (70) and the mixing case (620). One end of the drainage connection pipe (121) may be connected to the drainage device (70), and the other end of the drainage connection pipe (121) may be connected to the mixing case (620). As the drainage connection pipe (121) connects the mixing inlet (624) of the mixing case (620) and the drainage device (70), water discharged from the drainage device (70) may flow into the mixing path (623) of the mixing case (620).

[0165] The mixing case (620) may be connected to a circulation pump (76). The mixing case (620) may include a mixing outlet (625) for connecting to the circulation pump (76). The detergent supply module (110) may include a circulation connection pipe (122) for connecting the circulation pump (76) and the mixing case (620). One end of the circulation connection pipe (122) may be connected to the circulation pump (76), and the other end of the circulation connection pipe (122) may be connected to the mixing case (620). As the circulation connection pipe (122) connects the mixing outlet (625) of the mixing case (620) and the circulation pump (76), water discharged from the mixing case (620) or water mixed with detergent may flow to the circulation pump (76).

[0166] The mixing case (620) may include a mixing passage (623) formed to mix detergent discharged from the detergent discharge port (612) of the detergent pump (610) and water flowing in through the mixing inlet (624). The mixing passage (623) may extend between the mixing inlet (624) and the mixing outlet (625). The mixing passage (623) may form a portion of a passage for water discharged from the drainage device (70) to flow to the circulation pump (76). The mixing passage (623) may be partitioned from a detergent compartment space (620s) of the mixing case (620) for accommodating a portion of the detergent compartment (601).

[0167] The detergent pump (610) can suck in the detergent stored in the detergent box (601) and discharge the water discharged from the drainage device (70) of the mixing case (620) into a path for flowing to the circulation pump (76).

[0168] The detergent pump (610) is provided to be connectable to the detergent box (601) and may include a detergent suction unit (611) for suctioning detergent stored in the detergent box (601). The detergent suction unit (611) may be located in the detergent box space (620s) when the detergent pump (610) is mounted in the mixing case (620).

[0169] The detergent pump (610) may include a detergent discharge unit (612) that is provided to be insertable into the discharge opening (622) of the mixing case (620) and discharge detergent into a mixing path (623) formed in the mixing case (620). The detergent discharge unit (612) may be located in the mixing path (623) when the detergent pump (610) is mounted in the mixing case (620).

[0170] For example, the detergent supply module (110) can be assembled by mounting a detergent pump (610) on a mixing case (620), mounting a drainage device (70), a circulation pump (76), and a mixing case (620) equipped with the detergent pump (610) on a base frame (111), connecting a drainage connection pipe (121) to the drainage device (70) and the mixing case (620), and connecting a circulation connection pipe (122) to the circulation pump (76) and the mixing case (620).

[0171] Referring to FIG. 12, a detergent supply module (110) assembled as a single module can be mounted on the bottom plate (10a) of the housing (10). For example, the detergent supply module (110) can be mounted on the housing (10) by mounting a base frame (111) on the bottom plate (10a) of the housing (10) and fastening at least one fastening member.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 9, after the detergent supply module (110) is mounted on the bottom plate (10a) of the housing (10), the front portion of the detergent supply module (110) can be covered by mounting the lower bracket (106) on the bottom plate (10a). After mounting the lower bracket (106) on the bottom plate (10a), the lower frame (101) can be mounted on the lower bracket (106).

[0173] For example, when maintenance and / or repair of the detergent supply module (110) is required, the lower frame (101) and the lower bracket (106) are sequentially separated from the bottom plate (10a), and then the detergent supply module (110) can be separated from the bottom plate (10a) by disassembling the fastening member fastened to the detergent supply module (110) and the bottom plate (10a).

[0174] A mixing case (620) and a detergent pump (610) can be placed between the drain pump (71) and the circulation pump (76). At this time, the drain pump (71), the mixing case (620), the detergent pump (610), and the circulation pump (76) can be arranged in a row, and the length of the connecting pipe connecting the drain pump (71), the mixing case (620), and the circulation pump (76) can be configured to be minimal. Accordingly, the detergent supply module (110) can be configured compactly so that it can be mounted on one bottom plate (10a).

[0175] Fig. 13 is a rear view of a detergent supply module mounted on a housing of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 14 is a cross-section taken along line A-A' shown in Fig. 13.

[0176] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the process of supplying detergent to the tub (20) by the detergent supply module (110) is described.

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 13, the tub (20) can be connected to a drainage device (70) through a tub connection pipe (72). The tub connection pipe (72) can be connected to a drain inlet (75) of the drainage device (70). Water inside the tub (20) can flow to the drainage device (70) through the tub connection pipe (72).

[0178] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, water flowing into the drainage device (70) can flow toward the mixing case (620) as the circulation pump (76) operates. Water discharged from the drainage device (70) can flow into the mixing case (620) through the drainage connection pipe (121).

[0179] Water flowing into the mixing case (620) through the drain connection pipe (121) can flow along the mixing channel (623). While water flows in the mixing channel (623), the detergent pump (610) can suck in detergent from the detergent box (601) and discharge it into the mixing channel (623). The detergent pump (610) can be arranged to discharge detergent sucked in through the detergent suction unit (611) into the mixing channel (623) through the detergent discharge unit (612). The detergent discharged into the mixing channel (623) by the detergent pump (610) can be mixed with water flowing in the mixing channel (623).

[0180] Water flowing in through the drain connection pipe (121) can wash the detergent discharge portion (612) as it passes through the mixing channel (623). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent detergent from remaining in the detergent discharge portion (612) and hardening.

[0181] Water and detergent mixed in the mixing path (623) can be discharged to the circulation connection pipe (122). The water and detergent passing through the circulation connection pipe (122) can flow to the circulation guide (77) by the detergent pump (76). The circulation guide (77) can connect the circulation pump (76) and the tub (20). The circulation guide (77) can extend from the circulation pump (76) to the tub (20). The water and detergent can be supplied to the tub (20) by the circulation guide (77). The circulation pump (76) can be configured to supply the water and detergent in the mixing path (623) of the mixing case (620) to the tub (20) by the circulation guide (77).

[0182] For example, the clothing treatment device (1) may be arranged so that the bottom surface (626) of the mixing channel (623) is positioned at a height lower than the height of the mixing inlet (624) and / or the mixing outlet (625). Since the bottom surface (626) of the mixing channel (623) is positioned at a height lower than the height of the mixing inlet (624) and / or the mixing outlet (625), residual water may exist in the mixing channel (623), and lint may be prevented from accumulating in the mixing channel (623) due to such residual water.

[0183] For example, the clothing treatment device (1) may be arranged so that the bottom surface (626) of the mixing channel (623) is positioned at the same height as the height of the mixing inlet (624) and / or the mixing outlet (625). Since the bottom surface (626) of the mixing channel (623) is positioned at the same height as the height of the mixing inlet (624) and / or the mixing outlet (625), the hydraulic loss of water sequentially passing through the mixing inlet (624), the mixing channel (623), and the mixing outlet (625) can be minimized, and residual water can exist in at least a portion of the mixing channel (623), so that lint can be prevented from accumulating in the mixing channel (623).

[0184] Meanwhile, even when the clothing treatment device (1) performs a process in which no detergent is added, the circulation pump (76) is operated to cause water to flow into the mixing path (623) of the mixing case (620), so that the mixing path (623) of the mixing case (620) can be washed and kept clean.

[0185] FIG. 15 illustrates a detergent supply module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear. FIG. 16 illustrates a cross-section taken along line B-B' shown in FIG. 15.

[0186] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the detergent supply module (210) may include a drainage device (70), a circulation pump (76), a detergent pump (610), and a mixing case (620) having the same configuration as the drainage device (70), the circulation pump (76), the detergent pump (610), and the mixing case (620) of the detergent supply module (110) illustrated in FIG. 13. Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the detergent supply module (210) may include a drainage connection portion (221), a circulation connection portion (222), and a branch portion (223), unlike the drainage connection pipe (121) and the circulation connection pipe (122) of the detergent supply module (110) illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0187] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the detergent supply module (210) may include a drain connection (221) for connecting a drain pump (71) of a drainage device (70) and a mixing case (620), a circulation connection (222) for connecting the mixing case (620) and a circulation pump (76), and a branch (223) for connecting the drain connection (221) and the circulation connection (222) but bypassing the mixing case (620). For example, the drain connection (221), the circulation connection (222), and the branch (223) may be formed integrally.

[0188] The drain connection (221) can extend between the drain pump (71) of the drainage device (70) and the mixing case (620). The drain connection (221) can guide water discharged from the drainage device (70) to the mixing case (620). A path can be formed inside the drain connection (221) for water discharged from the drainage device (70) to flow to the mixing case (620).

[0189] The circulation connection (222) may extend between the mixing case (620) and the circulation pump (76). The circulation connection (222) may guide water and / or detergent discharged from the mixing case (620) to the circulation pump (76). A path may be formed inside the circulation connection (222) for water discharged from the mixing case (620) to flow to the circulation pump (76).

[0190] The branch (223) may extend from a portion of the drain connection (221) to a portion of the circulation connection (222). The branch (223) may guide at least a portion of the water flowing from the drain pump (71) of the drainage device (70) to the circulation pump (76) so that it does not pass through the mixing case (620). The branch (223) may branch from a portion of the drain connection (221). The branch (223) may be provided so that only a portion of the water discharged from the drainage device (70) may flow through it.

[0191] For example, the height of the branch portion (223) may be set to the same height as the drain connection portion (221) and the circulation connection portion (222). The branch portion (223) may be positioned on the same horizontal plane as the drain connection portion (221) and the circulation connection portion (222). By this structure, the detergent supply module (210) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can minimize the hydraulic loss of water flowing from the drainage device (70) to the circulation pump (76), and since residual water may exist in the branch portion (223), lint can be prevented from accumulating.

[0192] Fig. 17 illustrates an open state of the lower door of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 18 illustrates an exploded view of a portion of the lower door and detergent compartment separated from the housing of the garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 19 illustrates a cross-section taken along the line C-C' shown in Fig. 17.

[0193] Referring to FIG. 17, a garment treatment device (2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a lower door (310) that is slidably provided on a housing (10), unlike the lower door (18) of the garment treatment device (1) illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0194] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a garment treatment device (2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a lower door (310) that is slidably provided on a housing (10), and a door rail device (320) for supporting the sliding operation of the lower door (310).

[0195] The door rail device (320) may be mounted on the housing (10). For example, the door rail device (320) may be fixed to the housing (10) while being mounted on the base frame (111) of the detergent supply module (110). The door rail device (320) may be provided to support the sliding movement of the lower door (310).

[0196] The lower door (310) may be fixed to the door rail device (320). For example, the lower door (310) may be fixed to the door rail device (320) by a fastening member. As the door rail device (320) operates, the lower door (310) may move with respect to the housing (10). The lower door (310) may be provided to accommodate the detergent box (301). The lower door (310) may be provided to cover the detergent box (301) when the detergent box (301) is mounted on the housing (10). The lower door (310) may be provided to be slidable with respect to the housing (10).

[0197] The lower door (310) may include a door body (311). The door body (311) may be provided to accommodate a detergent box (301). The door body (311) may include a reinforcement mounting portion (311a) for mounting a door reinforcement portion (313). The door body (311) may include a detergent box receiving portion (311b) for accommodating the detergent box (301).

[0198] The lower door (310) may include a door cover (312). The door cover (312) may be provided to cover the front of the door body (311). The door cover (312) may form the exterior of the lower door (310).

[0199] The lower door (310) may include a door reinforcement member (313). The door reinforcement member (313) may include a material having greater strength than the door body (311) and / or the door cover (312). The door reinforcement member (313) may be mounted to a reinforcement mounting member (311a) of the door body (311).

[0200] The lower door (310) may include a rail bracket (314). The rail bracket (314) may be mounted on the door body (311). The rail bracket (314) may also be coupled with the door reinforcement member (313). The rail bracket (314) may be coupled to a door rail device (320). A plurality of door rail devices (320) may be provided at both ends of the lower door (310), and the rail brackets (314) may extend between the both ends of the lower door (310). The rail bracket (314) may supplement the sync of the plurality of door rail devices (320) coupled to both ends of the lower door (310). When the lower door (310) moves by the door rail device (320) due to the rail bracket (314), the left and right ends may move equally. The structural safety of the lower door (310) can be increased by the rail bracket (314).

[0201] The detergent box (301) can be detachably mounted on the door body (311) of the lower door (310). The detergent box (301) can be accommodated in the lower frame (101) of the housing (10) while being secured to the lower door (310). The detergent box (301) can be detached from the lower door (310) while the lower door (310) is slidably moved relative to the housing (10).

[0202] The lower door (310) may include a handle (330). The handle (330) may include a handle support (332) mounted to the door body (311) and a handle cover (331) rotatably mounted to the handle support (332).

[0203] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 19, a user can rotate the handle cover (331) by applying force to the handle cover (331), and as the handle cover (331) rotates, a portion that the user can grip may be exposed. The user can move the lower door (310) by gripping the handle (330).

[0204] For example, the door rail device (320) may be configured to pull the lower door (310) toward the housing (10) when the lower door (310) approaches a predetermined position relative to the housing (10). When a user moves the lower door (310) to a predetermined position, the door rail device (320) may be configured to automatically close the lower door (310).

[0205] For example, the door rail device (320) may be configured to push the lower door (310) away from the housing (10) when the lower door (310) moves away from the housing (10) to a predetermined position. When a user moves the lower door (310) to a predetermined position, the door rail device (320) may be configured to automatically open the lower door (310).

[0206] According to this structure, the garment treatment device (2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure allows the user to easily withdraw or insert the detergent box (301).

[0207] According to one embodiment, a clothing treatment device (1) includes a housing (10) having a laundry inlet (11), a tub (20) inside the housing, the tub having an air inlet for supplying air to the tub and an air outlet for discharging air from the tub, a drying device (80) located on the upper portion of the tub for removing moisture from air supplied through the air outlet, heating the air, and supplying the heated air to the tub through the air inlet, and a detergent supply module (110). The detergent supply module includes a base frame (111), a drain pump (71) located on the base frame and having a drain pump outlet, a circulation pump (76) located on the base frame and having a circulation pump inlet, a mixing case (620) located on the base frame and having a mixing channel (623) connecting the drain pump outlet and the circulation pump inlet, and a detergent pump (610) located on the mixing case and configured to supply detergent to the mixing channel. The base frame is detachably mounted to the housing such that the detergent supply module is detachably mounted inside the housing below the tub.

[0208] The above garment treatment device is configured to be docked with the detergent pump and may further include a detergent box (601) for storing detergent. The housing may include a lower frame (101) to which the detergent box is detachably mounted in front of the detergent supply module.

[0209] The above mixing case may include a detergent compartment space (620s) for accommodating a portion of the detergent compartment. The mixing passage may be partitioned from the detergent compartment space.

[0210] The above detergent pump may include a detergent suction portion (611) extending from the detergent compartment space, and a detergent discharge portion (612) coupled to the mixing channel.

[0211] The detergent container may include a docking portion (606) configured to be docked with the detergent suction portion, and a docking guide (609). The mixing case may include a guide coupling portion (629) that is coupled with the docking guide when the detergent container is detachably mounted to the housing, such that docking of the detergent suction portion and the docking portion is guided as the docking guide and the guide coupling portion are coupled.

[0212] The above-mentioned garment treatment device may further include a lower door (18) that is provided to cover the detergent box when the detergent box is detachably mounted on the lower frame, and that is rotatably mounted on the housing, and a door hinge (184) for supporting rotation of the lower door.

[0213] The above-mentioned clothing treatment device may further include a lower door (310) that is provided to cover the detergent box when the detergent box is mounted on the lower frame and is slidably movable with respect to the housing, and a door rail device (320) for supporting sliding movement of the lower door.

[0214] The housing may include a lower bracket (106) located between the detergent supply module and the lower frame and comprising a material having greater strength than the lower frame.

[0215] The above lower frame may include a detergent box guide (104) for guiding detachable mounting of the detergent box to the above lower frame.

[0216] The detergent supply module may include a drain connection pipe (121) for connecting the drain pump outlet and the mixing flow path, and a circulation connection pipe (122) for connecting the mixing flow path and the circulation pump.

[0217] The detergent supply module may include a drain connection (221) for connecting the drain pump outlet and the mixing flow path, a circulation connection (222) for connecting the mixing flow path and the circulation pump inlet, and a branch (223) for connecting the drain connection and the circulation connection and bypassing the mixing flow path.

[0218] The above mixing case may include a mixing inlet (624) for connecting with the drainage pump outlet, and a mixing outlet (625) for connecting with the circulation pump inlet. The mixing path may be between the mixing inlet and the mixing outlet.

[0219] The bottom surface (626) of the above mixing flow path may be at the same position as or lower than the bottom surface of the mixing inlet and the bottom surface of the mixing outlet.

[0220] The above circulation pump may have a circulation pump outlet. The above clothing treatment device may further include a circulation guide (77) connecting the circulation pump outlet and the tub. The circulation pump may be configured to supply water and detergent in the mixing channel to the tub through the circulation guide.

[0221] The above drain pump may be configured to discharge water from the tub into the mixing channel or outside the housing.

[0222] A garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment includes a housing (10) in which a laundry inlet (11) is formed, a tub (20) provided inside the housing for storing wash water, a detergent supply module (110) disposed at a lower portion of the tub and mounted on the housing, and a detergent box (601) detachably mounted on the housing and dockable with the detergent supply module. The detergent supply module includes a base frame (111) mounted on the housing, a drain pump (71) and a circulation pump (76) mounted on the base frame, a mixing case (620) mounted on the base frame between the drain pump and the circulation pump, the mixing case capable of accommodating at least a portion of the detergent box and forming a mixing channel (623), and a detergent pump (610) mounted on the mixing case, the detergent pump being dockable with the detergent box and configured to suck detergent from the detergent box and supply it to the mixing channel when docked with the detergent box.

[0223] The above-mentioned clothing treatment device may further include a circulation guide (77) connecting the circulation pump and the tub. The circulation pump may be configured to supply water and detergent in the mixing path of the mixing case to the tub through the circulation guide.

[0224] The above mixing case may include a detergent compartment space (620s) for accommodating a portion of the detergent compartment. The mixing channel may be provided to be partitioned from the detergent compartment space. The detergent pump may include a detergent suction unit (611) located in the detergent compartment space when the detergent pump is mounted on the mixing case, and a detergent discharge unit (612) located in the mixing channel when the detergent pump is mounted on the mixing case.

[0225] The above-mentioned clothing treatment device may further include a lower door (18) that is provided to cover the detergent box when the detergent box is mounted on the housing, and that is rotatably mounted on the housing, and a door hinge (184) that is provided to support rotation of the lower door.

[0226] The detergent supply module may include a drain connection pipe (121) for connecting the drain pump and the mixing case, and a circulation connection pipe (122) for connecting the mixing case and the circulation pump.

[0227] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the garment treatment device is configured with components for supplying detergent to the tub as a single module, so that maintenance and / or repair of the components can be easy.

[0228] 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.

[0229] 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; A tub inside the housing, the tub having an air inlet for supplying air to the tub and an air outlet for discharging air from the tub; A drying device located at the top of the tub to remove moisture from the air supplied through the air outlet, heat the air, and supply the heated air to the tub through the air inlet; and Includes a detergent supply module; The above detergent supply module, base frame; A drain pump having a drain pump outlet and located on the base frame; A circulation pump having a circulation pump inlet and located on the base frame; A mixing case in the base frame, having a mixing path connecting the drainage pump outlet and the circulation pump inlet; and A detergent pump is provided in the above mixing case and is configured to supply detergent to the above mixing euro; A garment treatment device in which the base frame is detachably mounted in the housing so that the detergent supply module is detachably mounted inside the housing below the tub.

2. In paragraph 1, It further includes a detergent box configured to be docked with the detergent pump and for storing detergent; A garment treatment device, wherein the housing includes a lower frame in which the detergent container is detachably mounted in front of the detergent supply module.

3. In paragraph 2, The above mixing case includes a detergent compartment space for accommodating a portion of the detergent compartment, The above mixed euro is a clothes treatment device separated from the detergent box space.

4. In paragraph 3, The above detergent pump, A detergent suction portion extending from the above detergent compartment space; and A garment treatment device including a detergent discharge unit coupled to the above mixing euro.

5. In paragraph 4, The above detergent box, A docking portion configured to be docked with the detergent suction portion; and Includes docking guide; The above mixing case is a clothes treatment device including a guide coupling part that is coupled with the docking guide when the detergent container is detachably mounted on the housing, and a guide coupling part that guides docking of the detergent suction part and the docking part by coupling the docking guide and the guide coupling part.

6. In paragraph 2, A lower door provided to cover the detergent box when the detergent box is detachably mounted on the lower frame and is rotatably mounted on the housing; and A garment treatment device further comprising a door hinge for supporting rotation of the lower door.

7. In paragraph 2, A lower door which is provided to cover the detergent box when the detergent box is mounted on the lower frame and is slidably movable with respect to the housing; and A garment treatment device further comprising a door rail device for supporting sliding movement of the lower door.

8. In paragraph 2, A garment treatment device, wherein the housing comprises a lower bracket between the detergent supply module and the lower frame and comprising a material having greater strength than the lower frame.

9. In paragraph 2, A garment treatment device wherein the lower frame includes a detergent box guide for guiding the detachable mounting of the detergent box to the lower frame.

10. In paragraph 1, The above detergent supply module, A drain connection pipe for connecting the above drain pump outlet and the above mixing path; and A clothing treatment device including a circulation connecting pipe for connecting the above-mentioned mixing path and the above-mentioned circulation pump.

11. In paragraph 1, The above detergent supply module, A drain connection for connecting the above drain pump outlet and the above mixing path; A circulation connection for connecting the above mixing flow path and the inlet of the circulation pump; and A clothes treatment device including a branch connecting the drain connection part and the circulation connection part and bypassing the mixing path.

12. In paragraph 1, The above mixed case is, A mixing inlet for connection with the above drain pump outlet; and A mixing outlet for connecting to the above circulation pump inlet; The above mixing euro is a garment treatment device located between the mixing inlet and the mixing outlet.

13. In paragraph 12, A clothing treatment device in which the bottom surface of the above mixing channel is at the same level as or lower than the bottom surface of the above mixing inlet and the bottom surface of the above mixing outlet.

14. In paragraph 1, The above circulation pump has a circulation pump outlet, The above clothing treatment device further includes a circulation guide connecting the circulation pump outlet and the tub; A clothing treatment device in which the above circulation pump is configured to supply water and detergent in the above mixing path to the above tub through the above circulation guide.

15. In paragraph 1, A clothes treatment device wherein the above drain pump is configured to discharge water from the tub into the mixing path or the outside of the housing.

Images