Spot cleaning device

Abstract

A spot cleaning device according to the present invention comprises: a washing liquid spraying unit configured to spray a washing liquid; a suctioning unit configured to suck contaminated water; and a control unit for controlling a moving device for moving the spot cleaning device.

Description

Partial washing machine

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a partial washing device capable of performing partial washing of target clothing.

[0002] A garment treatment device is a device that performs garment treatment such as washing wet garments, drying garments, removing dust attached to garments or odors from garments, and reducing wrinkles in garments.

[0003] Garment treatment devices can treat entire garments, but cannot satisfy the needs of users who only want to wash a portion of the garment.

[0004] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, only a portion of clothing can be conveniently washed.

[0005] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a portion of clothing can be efficiently washed.

[0006] 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.

[0007] A partial washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing liquid spraying unit configured to spray a washing liquid; a suction unit configured to suck up contaminated water; and a control unit that controls a moving unit that moves the partial washing machine, wherein the control unit performs control to cause the washing liquid spraying unit to move to a target area of ​​a target garment and to spray the washing liquid on the target area, and performs control to cause the suction unit to move to the target area and suck up contaminated water from the target area.

[0008] Figure 1 illustrates a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 illustrates a partial washing machine according to one embodiment from another angle.

[0010] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a drawing of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment, in which some components are omitted to explain the water supply path and the drain path.

[0012] Fig. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 illustrates a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 illustrates a top view of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial washing kit including a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 illustrates a state in which clothing is not fixed to a partial washing kit according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial laundry kit according to one embodiment from a different angle in which clothing is not fixed.

[0018] Fig. 11 illustrates a state in which clothing is fixed to a partial washing kit according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 12 illustrates a state in which clothing is fixed to a partial laundry kit according to one embodiment from a different angle.

[0020] Fig. 13 illustrates an example of a control block diagram of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 14 is a flowchart schematically illustrating the sequence of a washing operation of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment being in contact with or separated from clothing fixed to a fixed plate.

[0023] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for a partial washing machine according to one embodiment to set a target area of ​​a target garment.

[0024] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a user manually setting a target area of ​​a target garment using a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a washing operation of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 19 illustrates a washing liquid spray unit of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment moving to a target area and spraying washing liquid toward the target area.

[0027] Fig. 20 illustrates a vibration part of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment moving to a target area and vibrating the target area.

[0028] Fig. 21 illustrates a roller part of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment moving back and forth on a target area.

[0029] Fig. 22 illustrates a water spray unit of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment moving to a target area and spraying water toward the target area.

[0030] Figure 23 illustrates a suction unit of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment moving to a target area and sucking up contaminated water from the target area.

[0031] Fig. 24 illustrates a heating part of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment moving to a target area and heating the target area.

[0032] Fig. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0033] 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.

[0034] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] Meanwhile, the terms "front", "back", "left", "right", "up", "down", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawing, and each term is defined by these terms.

[0044] Figure 1 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment. Figure 2 illustrates a partial washing device according to one embodiment from another angle.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the partial washing machine (100) may include a water spray unit (101) configured to spray water, a detergent spray unit (102) configured to spray detergent, a vibration unit (103) configured to contact clothes and provide micro-vibrations to the clothes, a suction unit (104) configured to suck water and detergent, and / or a roller unit (105) configured to remove foreign substances on the clothes by rotating. According to various embodiments, the partial washing machine (100) may not include some of the components (e.g., the roller unit (105)) among the components described above (e.g., the water spray unit (101), the detergent spray unit (102), the vibration unit (103), the suction unit (104), the roller unit (105)), and may additionally include other components (e.g., the heating unit (104a), see FIG. 6).

[0046] In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) may include at least one sensor (108) that collects sensor data related to clothes positioned in the water spray direction of the water spray unit (101) and / or the detergent spray direction of the detergent spray unit (102). The at least one sensor (108) may include a camera and / or an optical sensor.

[0047] The camera may have a photographing direction directed toward clothes placed in the water spray direction of the water spray unit (101) and / or the washing liquid spray direction of the washing liquid spray unit (102). The light sensor may include a light irradiation unit and a light reception unit, and the light irradiation unit and the light reception unit may have an irradiation direction and a reception direction directed toward clothes placed in the water spray direction of the water spray unit (101) and / or the washing liquid spray direction of the washing liquid spray unit (102).

[0048] At least one sensor (108) may be positioned at the upper side of the lower surface of the partial washing machine (100). For example, at least one sensor (108) may be provided above the detergent spray unit (102). According to the present disclosure, at least one sensor (108) may be prevented from being contaminated by contaminated water, and when at least one sensor (108) includes a camera, the camera's field of view may be secured.

[0049] The water spray unit (101) can spray water toward clothes. The detergent spray unit (102) can spray a detergent containing a mixture of water and detergent toward clothes.

[0050] According to various embodiments, the detergent spray unit (102) may spray a detergent containing only detergent toward the clothes. That is, the detergent in the present specification may include not only a mixture of detergent and water, but also the detergent itself.

[0051] The vibration unit (103) can wash clothes by coming into contact with the clothes and providing micro-vibrations to the clothes. The suction unit (104) can suck up water, detergent, and foreign substances (hereinafter referred to as "contaminated water") sprayed on the clothes.

[0052] The partial washing machine (100) may further include a roller unit (105) that is provided to remove foreign substances from clothes by rotating. The partial washing machine (100) may include a driving motor (160) that is provided to rotate the roller unit (105). The roller unit (105) can wash a target area of ​​clothes together with the vibration unit (103). The roller unit (105) can wash clothes by coming into contact with the clothes. The roller unit (105) can make physical contact with clothes sprayed with water and detergent, thereby allowing contaminants on the clothes to be well mixed with the detergent. In addition, the roller unit (105) can remove foreign substances such as dust from the clothes by coming into contact with the clothes.

[0053] The roller unit (105) may be brush-shaped. Unlike what is shown in the drawing, the partial washing machine (100) may not include the roller unit (105). As another example, the partial washing machine (100) may include the roller unit (105) instead of the vibrating unit (103). As another example, the partial washing machine (100) may include the vibrating unit (103) instead of the roller unit (105).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) may include a water tank (120) including a water supply tank (121, see FIG. 3) provided to supply water sprayed from a water spray unit (101) and a drain tank (122, see FIG. 3) provided to store water sucked from a suction unit (104). The interior of the water tank (120) may be partitioned into a water supply tank (121) and a drain tank (122) by a partition wall (123, see FIG. 3). According to various embodiments, the partial washing machine (100) may also include separate water supply tanks and drain tanks.

[0055] The water tank (120) may include a first water tank opening (121a) for supplying water to the water tank (121) or for discharging water from the water tank (121). According to various embodiments, the water tank (120) may include both an inlet for supplying water to the water tank (121) and an outlet for discharging water from the water tank (121).

[0056] The water tank (120) may include a second water tank opening (122a) through which water, cleaning solution, foreign substances, etc. flow into the drain tank (122) or through which water, cleaning solution, foreign substances, etc. flow out from the drain tank (122). According to various embodiments, the water tank (120) may include both an inlet through which water, cleaning solution, foreign substances, etc. flow into the drain tank (122) and an outlet through which water, cleaning solution, foreign substances, etc. flow out from the drain tank (122).

[0057] For convenience of explanation, the surface on which the water spray unit (101), the detergent spray unit (102), the vibration unit (103), the suction unit (104), and / or the roller unit (105) are provided is defined as the lower surface of the partial washing machine (100).

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a water tank (120) can be detachably connected to a partial washing machine (100). A user can fill a water tank (121) of the water tank (120) with water and then connect it to the partial washing machine (100). After detaching the water tank (120) from the partial washing machine (100), the user can discharge the contaminated water filled in the drain tank (122). According to one embodiment, the water tank (120) can be detached to the side of the partial washing machine (100).

[0059] According to one embodiment, unlike that shown in the drawing, the water tank (120) can be separated from the upper surface of the partial washing machine (100).

[0060] When the water tank (120) is provided on the upper surface of the partial washing device (100) as illustrated in FIG. 9, the user can separate the water tank (120) from the partial washing device (100) or attach it to the partial washing device (100) without separating the partial washing device (100) from the frame (250, see FIG. 8).

[0061] The partial washing machine (100) may include a water tank insertion part (106) into which a water tank (120) is inserted, and a water tank fixing part (106a, 106b) that fixes the water tank (120) inserted into the water tank insertion part (106) to prevent the water tank (120) from being pulled out of the water tank insertion part (106) by gravity.

[0062] The water bottle fixing portion (106a, 106b) may be provided adjacent to the water bottle insertion portion (106). The water bottle fixing portion (106a, 106b) may be provided to be rotatable. The water bottle fixing portion (106a, 106b) may be provided to be rotatable between a fixing position that prevents a water bottle (120) inserted into the water bottle insertion portion (106) from being pulled out from the water bottle insertion portion (106) and a fixing release position that allows a water bottle (120) inserted into the water bottle insertion portion (106) to be pulled out from the water bottle insertion portion (106). The water bottle fixing portions (106a, 106b) may be provided as a pair. However, the number and arrangement of the water bottle fixing portions may be changed. Alternatively, a water tank fixing part may not be provided, and an elastic protrusion may be provided on the water tank (120) so that the water tank (120) can be fitted into the water tank insertion part (106).

[0063] The partial washing machine (100) may include a detergent inlet (107) provided to inject detergent into the detergent box. In one embodiment, different from that shown in the drawing, the detergent inlet (107) may be provided on the side of the partial washing machine (100) or may be provided on the upper surface of the partial washing machine (100).

[0064] When the detergent inlet (107) is provided on the upper surface of the partial washing machine (100), the user can inject detergent into the detergent container (131) through the detergent inlet (107) without separating the partial washing machine (100) from the frame (250, see FIG. 8).

[0065] According to various embodiments, the detergent box (131) may be provided to be separated from the housing (110), and the user may separate the detergent box (131) from the housing (110) and then pour detergent into the detergent box (131) through the detergent inlet (107).

[0066] The partial washing machine (100) is provided to cover the detergent inlet (107) and may further include an inlet cover (130) detachably coupled to the detergent inlet (107). As illustrated in FIG. 1, when the detergent inlet (107) is provided on the upper surface of the partial washing machine (100), the inlet cover (130) may be omitted. This is because detergent does not flow out through the detergent inlet even without the inlet cover.

[0067] The partial washing machine (100) may include moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114). The moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114) may include a first moving part (111) and a second moving part (112) that are provided to be connected to a first shaft (211, see FIG. 8). The moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114) may include a third moving part (113) and a fourth moving part (114) that are provided to be connected to a second shaft (231, see FIG. 8). The moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114) may be provided to move along a first direction as the first shaft (211) and the second shaft (231) rotate.

[0068] The first moving part (111) and the second moving part (112) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a first direction. The third moving part (113) and the fourth moving part (114) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a first direction. The first direction may refer to a vertical direction or a vertical direction. Accordingly, the first moving part (111) and the second moving part (112) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other vertically, and the third moving part (113) and the fourth moving part (114) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other vertically.

[0069] Each of the moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114) may include a hole through which a shaft passes. A screw thread corresponding to a screw thread formed in the first shaft (211) or the second shaft (231) may be formed in the hole of each of the moving parts (111, 112, 113, 114). Through this, as the first shaft (211) rotates in one direction, the first moving part (111) and the second moving part (112) may move upward or downward, and as the first shaft (211) rotates in the other direction, the first moving part (111) and the second moving part (112) may move downward or upward. Likewise, as the second shaft (231) rotates in one direction, the third moving part (113) and the fourth moving part (114) can move upward or downward, and as the second shaft (231) rotates in the other direction, the third moving part (113) and the fourth moving part (114) can move downward or upward. The one direction and the other direction in which the shaft rotates can refer to the clockwise direction (CW) and the counterclockwise direction (CCW), respectively.

[0070] Figure 3 is an exploded view of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a drawing of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment, with some components omitted to explain the water supply and drainage channels. Figure 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 3, the partial washing machine (100) may include a housing (110), a water supply pump (140) accommodated inside the housing (110), a drain pump (150), a driving motor (160), and a housing cover (110a). The partial washing machine (100) may further include a detergent box (131), a substrate (118a), and a battery (118b).

[0072] The housing (110) may be provided in a form in which one side is open. The housing (110) may include the first moving part (111), the second moving part (112), the third moving part (113), and the fourth moving part (114) described above. A water supply pump (140), a drain pump (150), and a driving motor (160), which will be described later, may be accommodated inside the housing (110). A detergent box (131) may be provided inside the housing (110), and a substrate (118a) and a battery (118b) may be accommodated therein. A housing cover (110a) may be provided to cover one open side of the housing (110).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the housing (110) may include a water tank insertion portion (106) provided to allow a water tank (120) to be inserted or withdrawn, and a water tank receiving portion (117) provided to receive a water tank (120) inserted into the housing (110) through the water tank insertion portion (106). The water tank receiving portion (117) may be provided with a water supply connection portion (117b) connected to a first water tank opening (121a) of the water tank (120), and a drain connection portion (117a) connected to a second water tank opening (122a) of the water tank (120).

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3, the partial washing machine (100) may include a drive motor (160) that provides a driving force to rotate the roller unit (105), and a gear unit (161) that is arranged to transmit the driving force of the drive motor (160) to the roller unit (105). According to one embodiment, the gear unit (161) may include a first gear (162) connected to a drive shaft of the drive motor (160), a second gear (164) connected to the roller unit (105), and a third gear (163) that is arranged to mesh with the first gear (162) and the second gear (164) between the first gear (162) and the second gear (164). The third gear (163) may be connected to a gear connection unit (163a) of a housing cover (110a).

[0075] The partial washing machine (100) may include a vibrator (103a) provided to provide micro-vibrations to the vibrating unit (103). The vibrator (103a) may be provided in multiple numbers, and for example, four vibrators (103a) may be provided inside the vibrating unit (103). The vibrator (103a) may be placed inside the housing (110) when the housing cover (110a) is coupled to the housing (110). The vibrator (103a) may include a piezoelectric element.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the partial washing machine (100) may include a water supply pump (140) configured to move water stored in a water supply tank (121) to a water spray unit (101) and a detergent spray unit (102). The water supply pump (140) may be connected to a first water supply hose (141) and a second water supply hose (142). Water may move inside the first water supply hose (141) and the second water supply hose (142), and the first water supply hose (141) and the second water supply hose (142) may form a path through which water moves. The first water supply hose (141) may connect a water supply connection unit (117b) and the water supply pump (140). The second water supply hose (142) may connect the water supply pump (140) and the water spray unit (101). As the water supply pump (140) operates, water in the water supply tank (121) can flow into the water supply pump (140) through the first water tank opening (121a), the water supply connection (117b), and the first water supply hose (141). The water flowing into the water supply pump (140) can be discharged through the second water supply hose (142). Since the second water supply hose (142) is connected to the water spray unit (101), the water discharged through the second water supply hose (142) can be sprayed to the outside of the partial washing machine (100) through the water spray unit (101).

[0077] In the present disclosure, the term "hose" may be replaced with terms such as pipe, tube, conduit, or duct in that it refers to a structure used to transport a fluid. Furthermore, the term "hose" in the present disclosure may include a pipe, tube, conduit, and / or duct.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) may further include a third water supply hose (143) branching from a point of the second water supply hose (142). The third water supply hose (143) may be connected to a connection hose (133) to be described later. The water in the third water supply hose (143) may be mixed with detergent in the detergent box (131) inside the connection hose (133) and then sprayed to the outside of the partial washing machine (100) through the detergent spray unit (102).

[0079] In one embodiment, the volume of the detergent compartment (131) may be smaller than the volume of the water tank (121). Accordingly, when the water pump (140) operates, the detergent stored in the detergent compartment (131) may be depleted before the water stored in the water tank (121) is depleted.

[0080] In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) may include at least one damper (not shown) or valve (not shown) configured to allow or block the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) by opening or closing the first water supply hose (141), and to allow or block the supply of water to the detergent spray unit (102) by opening or closing the third water supply hose (143).

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the partial washing machine (100) may include a drain pump (150) configured to move contaminated water from a suction portion (104) to a drain tank (122). The drain pump (150) may be connected to a first drain hose (151) and a second drain hose (152). Water may move inside the first drain hose (151) and the second drain hose (152), and the first drain hose (151) and the second drain hose (152) may form a path through which the water moves. The first drain hose (151) may connect the suction portion (104) and the drain pump (150). The second drain hose (152) may connect the drain pump (150) and a drain connection portion (117a). As the drain pump (150) operates, contaminated water can flow into the drain pump (150) through the first drain hose (151) via the suction portion (104). The contaminated water flowing into the drain pump (150) can be discharged through the second drain hose (152). Since the second drain hose (152) is connected to the drain tank (122) through the drain connection portion (117a) and the second water tank opening (122a), the contaminated water discharged through the second drain hose (152) can be stored in the drain tank (122).

[0082] The partial washing machine (100) may include a detergent box (131) configured to accommodate detergent. According to one embodiment, the detergent box (131) may be formed integrally with the housing (110). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the detergent box (131) may be provided as a separate component accommodated within the housing (110) and detachably disposed from the housing (110). The detergent box (131) may be connected to a detergent inlet (107). Detergent introduced through the detergent inlet (107) may be stored in the detergent box (131).

[0083] The detergent box (131) may include a detergent discharge port (131a). The detergent inside the detergent box (131) may be discharged to the outside of the detergent box (131) through the detergent discharge port (131a).

[0084] The detergent box outlet (131a) can be connected to a detergent hose (132). The detergent hose (132) can form a path through which the detergent moves. The detergent hose (132) can be connected to a connecting hose (133). The connecting hose (133) can be provided in the form of a T-shaped valve. The connecting hose (133) can include two inlets and one outlet. One of the two inlets of the connecting hose (133) can be connected to a third water supply hose (143), and the other can be connected to the detergent hose (132). The outlet of the connecting hose (133) can be connected to a detergent spray unit (102).

[0085] According to various embodiments, the structure of the partial washing device (100) is not limited to the examples described above and those described below. For example, the partial washing device (100) may further include a washing liquid container corresponding to the detergent box (131) and a washing liquid pump (not shown) that supplies the washing liquid stored in the washing liquid container to the washing liquid spray unit (102). According to various embodiments, the partial washing device (100) may also include a hose that can directly supply the washing liquid stored in the washing liquid container to the washing liquid spray unit (102).

[0086] Referring to FIG. 5, the connecting hose (133) may include a first inlet (133a) connected to a third water supply hose (143), a second inlet (133c) connected to a detergent hose (132), and an outlet (133d) connected to a detergent spray unit (102). Water introduced through the first inlet (133a) and detergent introduced through the second inlet (133c) may be mixed inside the connecting hose (133), and then the mixed detergent may be discharged through the outlet (133d).

[0087] The connecting hose (133) may include a nozzle part (133b) provided at one end of the first inlet (133a). One end of the nozzle part (133b) may have the same diameter as the first inlet (133a) so as to be connected to the first inlet (133a). The other end of the nozzle part (133b) may have a smaller diameter than the first inlet (133a). That is, the nozzle part (133b) may be provided so that its diameter decreases from one end of the nozzle part (133b) to the other end. Due to the structure of the nozzle part (133b), the flow rate of water introduced into one end of the nozzle part (133b) may increase when discharged from the other end of the nozzle part (133b). This is because the pressure decreases and the flow rate increases as the flow path area decreases while passing through the nozzle part (133b). As the fluid pressure decreases at the other end of the nozzle portion (133b), the detergent inside the detergent hose (132) moves into the connection hose (133) which has a relatively low pressure. Water passing through the other end of the nozzle portion (133b) and detergent introduced through the second inlet (133c) can be mixed inside the connection hose (133). The washing liquid mixed with water and detergent can be discharged through the outlet (133d) of the connection hose (133). Since the outlet (133d) is connected to the washing liquid spray portion (102), the water and detergent mixed inside the connection hose (133) can be sprayed to the outside of the partial washing device (100) through the washing liquid spray portion (102). As described above, the connection hose (133) includes the nozzle portion (133b) therein, so that water and detergent can be automatically mixed using the pressure difference without a separate driving device.

[0088] The partial washing machine (100) may include a battery (118b) provided to supply power to electrical components (e.g., a water supply pump (140), a drain pump (150), a driving motor (160), and / or a vibrator (103a)), and a charging terminal (115) provided to charge the battery (118b). The charging terminal (115) may include a positive pole (115a) and a negative pole (115b). In one embodiment, the battery (118b) may supply power to a mobile device (200) to be described later.

[0089] The partial washing machine (100) may further include a charging port (not shown) for charging the battery (118b). A charging terminal (115) may be exposed through the charging port for charging the battery (118b), and the battery (118b) may be charged by connecting the charging terminal (115) to a charging cable that supplies power from the outside.

[0090] The partial washing machine (100) may include a substrate (118a) on which electronic components (e.g., a control unit (180) and a communication unit (190) of FIG. 13) to be described later are mounted. The substrate (118a) may be accommodated inside a housing (110). In addition to the control unit (180) and the communication unit (190) described above, various components (e.g., a heat sink) may be mounted on the substrate (118a) as needed.

[0091] Figure 6 illustrates a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 6, a partial washing machine (100) according to one embodiment may include a water spray unit (101), a detergent spray unit (102), a vibration unit (103), a suction unit (104), a heating unit (104a), and / or a roller unit (105).

[0093] In one embodiment, the bottom of the partial washing machine (100) may be sequentially arranged at least one water supply configuration that performs a water supply operation for supplying water and / or washing liquid, at least one washing configuration that performs a washing operation for separating foreign substances from clothes, and at least one configuration that performs a suction operation and a drying operation for sucking contaminated water from clothes or drying clothes.

[0094] For example, on the bottom of the partial washing machine (100), a detergent spray unit (102), a water spray unit (101), a roller unit (105), a vibration unit (103), a heating unit (104a), and a suction unit (104) can be arranged in order from the top.

[0095] Depending on various embodiments, the arrangement order of components performing the same operation may be changed. For example, the arrangement order of the cleaning solution spray unit (102) and the water spray unit (101), the arrangement order of the roller unit (105) and the vibration unit (103), and / or the arrangement order of the heating unit (104a) and the suction unit (104) may be changed.

[0096] According to various embodiments, any one of the components performing the same operation may be omitted. For example, the partial washing machine (100) may include only the detergent spraying unit (102) among the detergent spraying unit (102) and the water spraying unit (101), may include only the vibration unit (103) among the roller unit (105) and the vibration unit (103), and may include only the suction unit (104) among the heating unit (104a) and the suction unit (104).

[0097] The heating unit (104a) may include a flat ironing board and an electric heating element (e.g., a heater) for heating the ironing board, similar to an electric iron.

[0098] According to various embodiments, the heating unit (104a) may be provided in the vibrating unit (103). For example, the heating unit (104a) may include an electric heating element (e.g., a heater) provided in the vibrating unit (103).

[0099] Figure 7 illustrates a top view of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 7, a partial washing machine (100) according to one embodiment may include a user interface device (170).

[0101] The user interface device (170) may include an input interface device (170a) and an output interface device (170b).

[0102] The input interface device (170a) can convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

[0103] The input interface device (170a) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), a communication button, and a movement button. The input interface device (170a) 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.

[0104] The power button may be a button for turning the power of the partial washing machine (100) on or off.

[0105] Based on the power button being pressed, the battery (118b) can supply power to the substrate (118a) or cut off power supplied to the substrate (118a).

[0106] In response to the partial washing machine (100) being powered on, the battery (118b) can supply power to the substrate (118a).

[0107] The action button may be a button for starting the washing cycle of the partial washing machine (100). That is, the action button may receive a user input for starting the washing cycle.

[0108] Based on the pressing of the action button, the control unit (180, see FIG. 15) can start the washing cycle.

[0109] The partial washing machine (100) can start a washing cycle corresponding to a washing course selected by a course selection button when the operation button is pressed.

[0110] The course selection button may be a button for selecting a washing course of the partial washing machine (100).

[0111] In one embodiment, the washing course of the partial washing machine (100) may include an automatic washing course and a normal washing course.

[0112] The automatic washing course may include a process in which the partial washing device (100) detects a contaminated area of ​​clothing and automatically washes it without the user having to manually set the target area.

[0113] The partial washing machine (100) moves based on the start of the automatic washing course, scans the clothes, identifies the contaminated part of the clothes, and performs a washing cycle for the target part by using the contaminated part of the clothes as the target part.

[0114] A manual washing course may include a process in which a user aligns a target area of ​​clothing to a preset position of a partial washing machine (100), and then the partial washing machine (100) washes the target area aligned to the preset position (target position).

[0115] The target location can be changed depending on the user's settings.

[0116] The user can set any one of the first position corresponding to the water spray unit (101), the second position corresponding to the cleaning solution spray unit (102), the third position corresponding to the vibration unit (103), the fourth position corresponding to the suction unit (104), or the fifth position corresponding to the roller unit (105) as the target position.

[0117] For example, if the third position corresponding to the vibrating part (103) is set as the target position, when the manual washing course starts, the partial washing machine (100) can perform the washing process with the third position corresponding to the vibrating part (103) as the target position.

[0118] The move button may be a button for moving the partial washing device (100). After moving the partial washing device (100) through the move button, the user can designate a target area for the partial washing device (100) by selecting the operation button.

[0119] For example, if the third position corresponding to the vibrating part (103) is set as the target position, the user can move the partial washing machine (100) so that the target part is aligned with the third position corresponding to the vibrating part (103) by using the move button, and then designate the target part by selecting the operation button.

[0120] In one embodiment, the course selection button may be omitted.

[0121] The communication button may be a button for activating the communication unit (190) of the partial washing machine (100).

[0122] The partial washing machine (100) can establish communication with an external device (e.g., a user device and / or a home appliance) by activating the communication unit (190) when the communication button is pressed.

[0123] The output interface device (170b) can transmit various information related to the operation of the partial washing machine (100) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0124] For example, the output interface device (170b) can transmit the operating time, information about the operation, and status information of the partial washing machine (100) to the user. The operating time, information about the operation, and status information of the partial washing machine (100) can be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. The output interface device (170b) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) module, a speaker, etc.

[0125] The operating time of the partial washing device (100) may include the remaining time remaining for the partial washing device (100) to complete the washing cycle.

[0126] Information about the operation of the partial washing device (100) may include information about the operation that the partial washing device (100) is performing (e.g., water spraying, detergent spraying, vibration unit operation).

[0127] The status information of the partial washing machine (100) may include information on the communication status of the partial washing machine (100), information on the status of the battery (118b) (e.g., battery remaining level), information on the amount of water in the water tank (120), information on the amount of detergent in the detergent box (131), etc.

[0128] A handle may be provided on the upper surface of the partial washing device (100) to secure or release the water tank (120) to the partial washing device (100). By turning the handle, the user can separate the water tank (120) from the partial washing device (100) or attach the water tank (120) to the partial washing device (100).

[0129] According to various embodiments, the partial washing machine (100) may be installed in a home appliance (e.g., a clothes manager) and / or a piece of furniture (e.g., a closet). When the partial washing machine (100) is installed in a home appliance (e.g., a clothes manager) and / or a piece of furniture (e.g., a closet), the home appliance (e.g., a clothes manager) and / or a piece of furniture (e.g., a closet) may include at least some of the components (e.g., a frame (250)) to be described with reference to FIG. 8.

[0130] In one embodiment, the spot cleaning device (100) may be provided in a portable form as a component of a spot cleaning kit (10).

[0131] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial washing kit including a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

[0132] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial washing kit including a partial washing device according to one embodiment.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 8, a partial washing kit (10) according to one embodiment may include a fixed plate (260) and a frame (250) that can be combined with the fixed plate (260).

[0134] The fixed plate (260) is a plate on which clothes to be partially washed can be placed, and may include a flat plate.

[0135] The fixed plate (260) may be formed of a material such as metal or plastic, but the material of the fixed plate (260) is not limited thereto. To improve the portability of the partial washing kit (10), the material of the fixed plate (260) may be composed of a low-density material (e.g., aluminum, plastic).

[0136] A partial washing device (100) can be combined with the frame (250).

[0137] The frame (250) can support the partial washing device (100) so that the partial washing device (100) can move in a first direction within the frame (250). The frame (250) can extend along the first direction. The frame (250) can accommodate the partial washing device (100), the first motor (210), the second motor (230), the first shaft (211), and the second shaft (231).

[0138] The frame (250) can accommodate the partial washing device (100) such that at least a portion (e.g., an upper surface) of the partial washing device (100) is exposed to the outside of the partial washing kit (10). The frame (250) can support the partial washing device (100) such that the partial washing device (100) can move within the frame (250). The frame (250) extends along a first direction, and the partial washing device (100) can move within the frame (250) along the first direction. The partial washing device (100) can move up and down within the frame (250).

[0139] The frame (250) may include a frame cover (280) and a frame body (270) coupled to the frame cover (280).

[0140] The frame cover (280) may include a first frame hole (285) into which the partial washing device (100) is inserted. The partial washing device (100) may be inserted into the first frame hole (285). At least a portion of the partial washing device (100) may pass through the first frame hole (285) and protrude outwardly from the frame cover (280). The first frame hole (285) may extend in a first direction (e.g., up and down) to guide movement of the partial washing device (100) in the first direction. The partial washing device (100) may move along the first direction within the first frame hole (285). Unlike what is illustrated in the drawing, the frame cover (280) may not include a frame hole and the partial washing device (100) may be accommodated within the frame body.

[0141] Although not shown in the drawing, in various embodiments, the frame cover (280) may be coupled to a frame shaft extending in a second direction (e.g., left-right direction), and the frame shaft may be connected to a frame motor. In this case, the frame shaft and the frame motor may be provided in another frame larger than the frame (250).

[0142] When the frame cover (280) is coupled with a frame shaft extending in the second direction, the frame cover (280) may be movable in the second direction according to the driving force generated from the frame motor. As the frame cover (280) is movable in the second direction, the partial washing device (100) coupled to the frame cover (280) may also be movable in the second direction.

[0143] The frame body (270) can be coupled to the frame cover (280) to cover an open side of the frame cover (280). The frame body (270) can be coupled to the frame cover (280) to form an internal space of the frame (250) that accommodates the partial washing machine (100), the first motor (210), the second motor (230), the first shaft (211), and the second shaft (231).

[0144] The frame body (270) may include a first shaft support (271, 272) provided to support the first shaft (211) and a second shaft support (273, 274) provided to support the second shaft (231). The frame body (270) may include a first motor mounting portion (275) on which the first motor (210) is mounted and a second motor mounting portion (276) on which the second motor (230) is mounted. The frame body (270) may include a second frame hole (277) formed through the frame body (270) so that the partial washing device (100) is exposed to the outside.

[0145] The first shaft support (271, 272) may be connected to the first shaft (211). The first shaft support (271, 272) may include a first upper support (271) provided adjacent to an upper side of one side of the frame body (270) and a first lower support (272) provided adjacent to a lower side of one side of the frame body (270). The first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272) may each include a hole provided to allow the first shaft (211) to pass therethrough. The first shaft (211) may rotate within the first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272). The first shaft (211) may rotate idly within the first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272). In other words, even if the first shaft (211) rotates within the first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272), the first upper support (271) and the first lower support (272) may not move along the first direction.

[0146] The second shaft support (273, 274) may be connected to the second shaft (231). The second shaft support (273, 274) may include a second upper support (273) provided adjacent to the upper side of the other side of the frame body (270) and a second lower support (274) provided adjacent to the lower side of the other side of the frame body (270). The second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274) may each include a hole provided to allow the second shaft (231) to pass through. The second shaft (231) may rotate within the second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274). The second shaft (231) may rotate idly within the second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274). In other words, even if the second shaft (231) rotates within the second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274), the second upper support (273) and the second lower support (274) may not move along the first direction.

[0147] A first motor (210) can be mounted on the first motor mounting portion (275). Although the specific structure is not shown in the drawing, the first motor mounting portion (275) can support the first motor (210) in various structures. For example, the first motor mounting portion (275) can include an elastic protrusion so that the first motor (210) can be fitted into the first motor mounting portion (275).

[0148] A second motor (230) may be mounted on the second motor mounting portion (276). Although the specific structure is not shown in the drawing, the second motor mounting portion (276) may support the second motor (230) in various structures. For example, the second motor mounting portion (276) may include an elastic protrusion so that the second motor (230) may be fitted into the second motor mounting portion (276).

[0149] The frame body (270) may include a second frame hole (277) into which the partial washing device (100) is inserted. The partial washing device (100) may be inserted into the second frame hole (277). At least a portion of the partial washing device (100) may protrude outwardly from the frame body (270) by passing through the second frame hole (277). The partial washing device (100) may be exposed toward the fixing plate (260) through the second frame hole (277). The partial washing device (100) exposed toward the fixing plate (260) may partially wash clothes fixed to the fixing plate (260). The second frame hole (277) may extend in a first direction to guide movement of the partial washing device (100) in the first direction. The partial washing device (100) may move along the first direction within the second frame hole (277).

[0150] As described above, the partial washing device (100) can move in a first direction (e.g., up and down) within the frame (250). According to various embodiments, when the frame (250) accommodating the partial washing device (100) is coupled with a frame shaft extending in a second direction (e.g., left and right), and the frame shaft is connected to a frame motor, the partial washing device (100) can move in the first and second directions. In other words, the partial washing device (100) can move in the up, down, left, and right directions.

[0151] The fixed plate (260) and the frame (250) can be connected to each other through a connecting member.

[0152] For example, the frame (250) can be rotatably connected to the fixed plate (260) through a connecting member such as a hinge (255).

[0153] As another example, the frame (250) can be rotatably connected to the fixed plate (260) through a connecting member such as a hook.

[0154] In one embodiment, the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250) may each include a fixed portion (260a, 270a).

[0155] For example, if one side of the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) are connected via a hinge (255), a fixed part (260a, 270a) may be provided on the other side of the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260).

[0156] The fixed part (260a, 270a) may include a coupling protrusion and a protrusion insertion hole.

[0157] For example, the fixed plate (260) may include a coupling protrusion as a first fixed portion (260a), and the frame (250) may include a protrusion insertion hole as a second fixed portion (270a). The user may fix the frame (250) to the fixed plate (260) by coupling the coupling protrusion provided on the fixed plate (260) to the protrusion insertion hole provided on the frame (250). Conversely, it goes without saying that the fixed plate (260) may include a protrusion insertion hole as a first fixed portion (260a), and the frame (250) may include a coupling protrusion as a second fixed portion (270a).

[0158] According to various embodiments, any configuration for fixing the frame (250) to the fixing plate (260) may correspond to the fixing member (260a, 270a).

[0159] For example, the fixing member (260a, 270a) may include bolts and nuts, Velcro, and / or magnets.

[0160] The frame (250) can be coupled to the fixed plate (260) by electromagnetic force. For example, the fixed plate (260) can be made of a magnetic material, and the frame (250) can be made of an electromagnet. The partial washing machine (100) operates the frame (250) as an electromagnet by applying current to the frame (250) based on the power being turned on, and accordingly, the frame (250) can be fixed to the fixed plate (260) by electromagnetic force. In this case, the fixed parts (260a, 270a) can be the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) itself (magnet).

[0161] According to various embodiments, the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) may only include the fixed portions (260a, 270a) without being connected to each other through a connecting member. In this case, the user may place clothing on the fixed plate (260), then place the frame (250) on top of the clothing and secure the frame (250) to the fixed plate (260) through the fixed portions (260a, 270a), thereby simultaneously connecting the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250) and securing the frame (250) to the fixed plate (260).

[0162] Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, clothing to be washed by the partial washing machine (100) is defined as target clothing. Target clothing may include clothing fixed to a fixing plate (260) and / or clothing fixed to a home appliance (e.g., a clothing manager) and / or furniture (e.g., a closet).

[0163] FIG. 9 illustrates a state in which clothing is not fixed to a partial laundry kit according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 illustrates a state in which clothing is not fixed to a partial laundry kit according to one embodiment from a different angle.

[0164] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, when the frame (250) is not fixed to the fixed plate (260), an empty space (34) may be formed between the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250).

[0165] The frame (250) not being fixed to the fixed plate (260) may include that only one side of the frame (250) is connected to the fixed plate (260) by a connecting member, and the other side is not fixed to the frame (250).

[0166] The fact that the frame (250) is not fixed to the fixed plate (260) may include that the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) are not connected by a connecting member, and that the frame (250) is not fixed to the fixed plate (260) by a fixing member (260a, 270a).

[0167] If the frame (250) is not fixed to the fixed plate (260), one side of the fixed plate (260) may be exposed to the outside, and the user may place at least a portion of clothing on one side of the fixed plate (260).

[0168] Fig. 11 illustrates a state in which clothing is fixed to a partial laundry kit according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 illustrates a state in which clothing is fixed to a partial laundry kit according to one embodiment from a different angle.

[0169] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a user can secure clothing to a fixing plate (260) by placing at least a portion of clothing on one side of the fixing plate (260) and securing a frame (250) to the fixing plate (260).

[0170] When the frame (250) is fixed to the fixed plate (260), the empty space (34) between the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) becomes narrow, so that the clothing can be fixed to the fixed plate (260). That is, the clothing can be fixed to the empty space (34).

[0171] The empty space (34) between the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) can be connected to the second frame hole (277). The partial washing machine (100) can perform partial washing on clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) through the second frame hole (277).

[0172] Fig. 13 illustrates an example of a control block diagram of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 13, the partial washing machine (100) may include a user interface device (170), a sensor (108), a washing machine (100a), a moving device (200), a communication unit (190), and / or a control unit (180). In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) may include at least one damper (not shown) or valve (not shown) configured to allow or block the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) by opening and closing the first water supply hose (141), and to allow or block the supply of water to the detergent spray unit (102) by opening and closing the third water supply hose (143).

[0174] In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) may include a water supply pump configured to allow or block the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) and a detergent pump configured to allow or block the supply of detergent to the detergent spray unit (102).

[0175] The user interface device (170) may include an input interface device (170a) and an output interface device (170b).

[0176] The partial washing machine (100) can receive user input for starting a washing cycle through the input interface device (170a). For example, in response to pressing the operation button of the input interface device (170a), an electrical signal for starting a washing cycle can be transmitted to the control unit (180).

[0177] At least one sensor (108) may include a sensor for detecting a contaminated portion of the clothing.

[0178] At least one sensor (108) may include a camera and / or a light sensor.

[0179] Sensor data collected from at least one sensor (108) can be transmitted to the control unit (180).

[0180] At least one sensor (108) may be provided on the lower surface of the partial washing machine (100). That is, when the frame is fixed to the fixed plate (260), at least one sensor (108) may have a shooting direction or detection direction directed toward the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260).

[0181] According to various embodiments, at least one sensor (108) may further include a dryness sensor (not shown) provided on the lower surface of the partial washing machine (100). In one embodiment, the dryness sensor may be provided near the suction unit (104) and may detect the dryness of a portion of clothing adjacent to the suction unit (104). The dryness sensor may include, for example, an electrode sensor.

[0182] The washing machine (100a) may include components for performing a washing operation. The washing operation may include a water supply operation, a washing operation, and / or a drying operation.

[0183] For example, the washing machine (100a) may include at least one damper (not shown) or valve (not shown) configured to allow or block the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) by opening or closing the water supply pump (140), the drain pump (150), the drive motor (160), the vibrator (103a), the heating unit (104a), and / or the first water supply hose (141) and to allow or block the supply of water to the detergent spray unit (102) by opening or closing the third water supply hose (143).

[0184] According to various embodiments, when the partial washing machine (100) is separately provided with a water supply pump that allows or blocks the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) and a detergent pump that is configured to allow or block the supply of detergent to the detergent spray unit (102), the washing machine (100a) may include a water supply pump that allows or blocks the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) and a detergent pump that is configured to allow or block the supply of detergent to the detergent spray unit (102).

[0185] That is, the washing machine (100a) may include a configuration for causing the water spraying unit (101) to spray water, a configuration for causing the detergent spraying unit (102) to spray detergent, a configuration for causing the vibration unit (103) to vibrate, a configuration for causing the heating unit (104a) to heat, a configuration for causing the suction unit (104) to suck in contaminated water (e.g., a drain pump (150)), and / or a configuration for causing the roller unit (105) to roll.

[0186] The communication unit (190) can communicate with an external device via wire and / or wirelessly.

[0187] The communication unit (190) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0188] The communication unit (190) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (190) can establish communication with an external device and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0189] To this end, the communication unit (190) can 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 unit (190) can 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). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through 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 different 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).

[0190] 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.

[0191] 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.

[0192] In one embodiment, the communication unit (190) can communicate with external devices, such as a server and / or a user device, via a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the partial washing machine (100), home appliances, and / or user devices are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The partial washing machine (100), home appliances, and / or user devices can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0193] The moving device (200) may include a first motor (210) and / or a second motor (230). The partial washing device (100) may be connected to the moving device (200) by wire and / or wirelessly. That is, the moving device (200) may be a component of the partial washing device (100).

[0194] The moving device (200) can move the partial washing device (100). For example, the moving device (200) can move the partial washing device (100) in a first direction (e.g., up and down).

[0195] According to various embodiments, when the moving device (200) further includes a frame motor connected to a frame shaft that is coupled to the frame cover (280) and extends in a second direction (e.g., left-right direction), the moving device (200) can move the partial washing machine (100) in a first direction (e.g., up-down direction) and a second direction (e.g., left-right direction).

[0196] For example, when the moving device (200) is installed in a home appliance (e.g., a clothes manager) and / or furniture (e.g., a closet), the moving device (200) can move the partial washing machine (100) in a first direction (e.g., up and down direction) and a second direction (e.g., left and right direction).

[0197] The control unit (180) can control various components of the partial washing machine (100) (e.g., output interface device (170b), washing machine (100a), moving device (200), communication unit (190)). The control unit (180) can control various components of the partial washing machine (100) to perform at least one cycle including water spraying, detergent spraying, vibration, suction, heating, etc. according to a user input for starting a washing cycle. For example, the control unit (180) may control the washing machine (100a) to spray water and / or detergent through the water spray unit (101) and / or the detergent spray unit (102), control the washing machine (100a) to vibrate the vibrating unit (103), control the washing machine (100a) to rotate the roller unit (105), control the washing machine (100a) to provide suction force through the suction unit (104), or control the washing machine (100a) to heat the heating unit (104a).

[0198] The control unit (180) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (180) may include at least one memory (182) that stores algorithms for controlling the operations of components within the partial washing machine (100), data in the form of programs, and at least one processor (181) that performs the operations described above and operations to be described later using data stored in the at least one memory (182). The memory (182) and the processor (181) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (181) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (182) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (182) and the processor (181) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0199] The partial washing machine (100) according to one embodiment may not include some of the configurations described above, or may include additional configurations.

[0200] For example, the partial washing machine (100) may further include an actuator (not shown) that moves the first shaft support (271, 272) and the second shaft support (273, 274).

[0201] The first shaft support (271, 272) and the second shaft support (273, 274) can be moved toward the lower surface of the partial washing device (100) or toward the upper surface of the partial washing device (100) by an actuator.

[0202] The control unit (180) can move the partial washing device (100) toward the lower surface of the partial washing device (100) or toward the upper surface of the partial washing device (100) by controlling the actuator.

[0203] Accordingly, the partial washing device (100) can move in the lower or upper direction of the partial washing device (100).

[0204] Fig. 14 is a flowchart schematically illustrating the sequence of a washing operation of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0205] The control unit (180) can start the washing cycle based on receiving a user input for starting the washing cycle through the input interface device (170a).

[0206] As another example, the control unit (180) can start the washing cycle based on receiving a command to start the washing cycle from an external device (e.g., a user device, a home appliance, etc.) through the communication unit (190).

[0207] When the washing cycle begins, the partial washing machine (100) can perform the washing cycle on clothes fixed to the fixing plate (260). Even if the clothes are fixed to the fixing plate (260), there may be some space between the clothes and the partial washing machine (100) unless the frame (250) and the fixing plate (260) are in complete contact.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 14, the control unit (180) can perform control to bring the partial washing device (100) into close contact with the clothes based on the start of the washing cycle (1010).

[0209] Controlling the partial washing device (100) to come into close contact with clothing may include controlling the partial washing device (100) to move in the direction of the lower surface of the partial washing device (100).

[0210] For example, the control unit (180) can control the actuator so that the first shaft support (271, 272) and the second shaft support (273, 274) supporting the partial washing device (100) move in the direction of the lower surface of the partial washing device (100).

[0211] As another example, when the frame (250) is coupled to the fixed plate (260) by electromagnetic force, the control unit (180) can perform control to increase the intensity of the current applied to the frame (250) so that the frame (250) and the fixed plate (260) come into close contact, thereby bringing the partial washing machine (100) into close contact with the clothes.

[0212] As another example, the control unit (180) can perform control so that only the components that should be in close contact with the clothing (e.g., the vibration unit (103), the roller unit (105), and / or the heating unit (104a)) move toward the lower side of the partial washing machine (100), thereby performing control so that the partial washing machine (100) is brought into close contact with the clothing.

[0213] To this end, the partial washing machine (100) may further include an actuator for moving a component that is to be in close contact with clothing (e.g., a vibration unit (103), a roller unit (105), and / or a heating unit (104a)) toward the lower side of the partial washing machine (100). The control unit (108) controls the actuator to move a component that is to be in close contact with clothing (e.g., a vibration unit (103), a roller unit (105), and / or a heating unit (104a)) toward the lower side of the partial washing machine (100), thereby bringing the partial washing machine (100) and the clothing into close contact.

[0214] The control to ensure that the partial washing device (100) comes into close contact with the clothing is not limited to the above-described example and can be implemented according to various methods.

[0215] The control unit (180) can perform a washing process on clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) (1020).

[0216] The washing cycle may include a water spray cycle for spraying water onto clothes through a water spray unit (101), a detergent spray cycle for spraying detergent onto clothes through a detergent spray unit (102), a vibration cycle for providing vibration to clothes through a vibration unit (103), a rolling cycle for rotating a roller unit (105), a suction cycle for sucking contaminated water through a suction unit (104), and / or a heating cycle for heating clothes through a heating unit (104a).

[0217] The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the water spray unit (101) at the target area and perform the water spraying process.

[0218] The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the cleaning solution spray unit (102) on the target area and perform the cleaning solution spraying process.

[0219] In one embodiment, the control unit (180) may control the moving device (200) to place the water spray unit (101) and the cleaning solution spray unit (102) at the target area and may perform the water spraying process and the cleaning solution spraying process simultaneously.

[0220] In one embodiment, performing the cleaning solution spray stroke and / or the water spray stroke may include operating a feed pump (140).

[0221] If the partial washing machine (100) does not include a configuration that allows or blocks the supply of water to the water spray unit (101) by opening and closing the first water supply hose (141) and allows or blocks the supply of water to the detergent spray unit (102) by opening and closing the third water supply hose (143), when the water supply pump (140) is operated, detergent may be sprayed through the detergent spray unit (102) and water may be sprayed through the water spray unit (101) at the same time.

[0222] That is, the control unit (180) performing control to cause the cleaning solution spray unit (102) to spray the cleaning solution on the target area may include performing control to cause the water spray unit (101) to spray water.

[0223] If the detergent spraying process continues for a predetermined period of time, the detergent in the detergent container may be depleted. Accordingly, when the water supply pump (140) is operated after the detergent spraying process has been performed for a predetermined period of time, the detergent may not be sprayed through the detergent spray unit (102), but water may be sprayed through the water spray unit (101).

[0224] The control unit (180) performing control to cause the water spray unit (101) to spray water may include operating the water supply pump (140) after performing the cleaning solution spraying process for a predetermined period of time.

[0225] The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the vibrating unit (103) at the target area and perform a vibration operation.

[0226] The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the suction unit (104) at the target area and perform a suction operation.

[0227] The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the heating unit (104a) at the target area and perform a heating process.

[0228] In one embodiment, the control unit (180) may perform a suction stroke while performing a water spray stroke and / or a cleaning solution spray stroke.

[0229] The control unit (180) can control the moving device (200) to place the roller unit (105) on the target area and perform a rolling operation.

[0230] In one embodiment, the control unit (180) can perform a washing cycle for clothes by performing a washing liquid spraying cycle (and / or a water spraying cycle), a vibration cycle, a rolling cycle, a heating cycle, and / or a suction cycle for a predetermined number of times in a predetermined order on the target area.

[0231] The partial washing machine (100) can perform a washing cycle according to a preset algorithm.

[0232] The control unit (180) can terminate the washing cycle according to a preset algorithm (1030).

[0233] For example, the control unit (180) may terminate the washing cycle based on the passage of a predetermined amount of time since the washing cycle began. As another example, the control unit (180) may terminate the washing cycle based on the detection of the disappearance of contamination from the target area through the sensor (108).

[0234] The control unit (180) can perform control to separate the partial washing device (100) from the clothes based on the completion of the washing cycle (1040).

[0235] Controlling the partial washing device (100) to move away from the clothes may include controlling the partial washing device (100) to move toward the upper surface of the partial washing device (100).

[0236] For example, the control unit (180) can control the actuator so that the first shaft support (271, 272) and the second shaft support (273, 274) supporting the partial washing device (100) move toward the upper surface of the partial washing device (100).

[0237] As another example, when the frame (250) is coupled to the fixed plate (260) by electromagnetic force, the control unit (180) can perform control to separate the partial washing machine (100) from the clothes by reducing the intensity of the current applied to the frame (250) or stopping the supply of the current applied to the frame (250).

[0238] According to the present disclosure, when the washing cycle is completed, the partial washing device (100) is separated from the clothing, thereby allowing air to flow to the target area where partial washing has been performed.

[0239] The control to separate the partial washing device (100) from the clothes is not limited to the above-described example and can be implemented according to various methods.

[0240] Some of the washing process of the partial washing device (100) described above may be omitted, and the washing process of the partial washing device (100) may include additional processes.

[0241] For example, steps 1010 and 1040 may be omitted.

[0242] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment being in contact with or separated from clothing fixed to a fixed plate.

[0243] Referring to FIG. 15, the partial washing machine (100) can be brought into close contact with clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) by process 1010. The partial washing machine (100) being brought into close contact with clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) may include the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250) being brought into close contact.

[0244] Since the partial washing device (100) is in close contact with the clothing fixed to the fixed plate (260), only the target area can be washed efficiently.

[0245] The partial washing device (100) can be separated from the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) by process 1040. The separation of the partial washing device (100) from the clothes fixed to the fixed plate (260) may include the separation of the fixed plate (260) and the frame (250).

[0246] By separating the partial washing device (100) from the clothing fixed to the fixed plate (260), a space can be secured through which air can flow so that the target area can be dried after the partial washing is completed.

[0247] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for a partial washing machine according to one embodiment to set a target area of ​​a target garment.

[0248] In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) can scan a target garment (2010).

[0249] In one embodiment, when an automatic washing course starts, the partial washing machine (100) can scan the target clothing to find a contaminated part of the target clothing, and then set the contaminated part as the target area to perform a washing process for the contaminated part.

[0250] Scanning the target garment may include the partial washing machine (100) moving and collecting data about the target garment.

[0251] For example, at least one sensor (108) of the partial washing machine (100) may include a camera, and the partial washing machine (100) may move in the frame (250) and collect image data on the target garment.

[0252] As another example, at least one sensor (108) of the partial washing machine (100) may include a light sensor, and the partial washing machine (100) may move on the frame (250) and collect light quantity data by shining light on target clothes and receiving reflected light.

[0253] In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) can analyze data collected from the sensor (108) (2020).

[0254] In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) can determine a target area of ​​a target garment based on processing data collected from a sensor (108) (2030).

[0255] For example, the control unit (180) may receive image data for target clothing and identify a contaminated portion of the target clothing based on the processed image data. The control unit (180) may determine the contaminated portion of the target clothing as the target portion and control the partial washing machine (100) to perform washing of the target portion.

[0256] As another example, the control unit (180) may receive light intensity data and identify a contaminated portion of a target garment based on the processed light intensity data. The control unit (180) may determine the contaminated portion of the target garment as the target portion and control the partial washing machine (100) to perform washing of the target portion.

[0257] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the partial washing machine (100) can automatically wash the contaminated portion of clothing simply by the user selecting an automatic washing course, thereby increasing the convenience of the user.

[0258] FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a user manually setting a target area of ​​a target garment using a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0259] Referring to FIG. 17, a user can move the partial washing machine (100) using an input interface device (170a).

[0260] For example, a user can move the partial washing machine (100) using the movement button of the input interface device (170a). After moving the partial washing machine (100) so that the partial washing machine (100) is placed on the target area (ta) of the target clothing, the user can start a manual washing course through the input interface device (170a).

[0261] For example, a user can designate a target area by using the movement button of the input interface device (170a) to place the first position corresponding to the water spray unit (101) of the partial washing machine (100) at the target area (ta), and then starting the washing cycle using the operation button of the input interface device (170a).

[0262] To this end, the control unit (180) can control the mobile device (200) based on user input received from the input interface device (170a).

[0263] According to various embodiments, the input interface device (170a) may further include a range setting button. The range setting button may be used as a button for setting a target area (ta).

[0264] For example, a user can set a target area (ta) by pressing a range setting button, moving the partial washing device (100) with the move button while the range setting button is selected, and then pressing the range setting button again to deselect the range setting button. At this time, the area to which the partial washing device (100) has moved while the range setting button is selected can be set as the target area (ta).

[0265] As another example, a user can set a target area (ta) by pressing the range setting button, moving the partial washing device (100) with the move button, and then releasing the range setting button. At this time, the area to which the partial washing device (100) has moved while the range setting button is pressed can be set as the target area (ta).

[0266] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a washing cycle of a partial washing device according to one embodiment. FIG. 19 illustrates a washing liquid spray unit of a partial washing device according to one embodiment moving to a target area and spraying washing liquid toward the target area. FIG. 20 illustrates a vibration unit of a partial washing device according to one embodiment moving to a target area and vibrating the target area. FIG. 21 illustrates a roller unit of a partial washing device according to one embodiment reciprocatingly moving around a target area. FIG. 22 illustrates a water spray unit of a partial washing device according to one embodiment moving to a target area and spraying water toward the target area. FIG. 23 illustrates a suction unit of a partial washing device according to one embodiment moving to a target area and sucking contaminated water from the target area. FIG. 24 illustrates a heating unit of a partial washing device according to one embodiment moving to a target area and heating the target area.

[0267] As previously described, the partial washing machine (100) can start the washing cycle based on receiving a control signal for starting the washing cycle from an external device via the communication unit (190). As another example, the partial washing machine (100) can start the washing cycle based on receiving a user input for starting the washing cycle via the input interface device (170a).

[0268] Below, each operation illustrated in Fig. 18 is described with reference to Figs. 19 to 24.

[0269] Referring to FIG. 18, the washing process of the partial washing machine (100) may include a washing liquid spraying operation (3010), a washing operation (3020), a water spraying operation (3030), a suction operation (3040), and / or a drying operation (3060).

[0270] According to various embodiments, the washing process of the partial washing machine (100) may not include some of the operations described above. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, the washing process of the partial washing machine (100) may include additional operations in addition to the operations described above.

[0271] In addition, the order of the washing process of the partial washing machine (100) is not limited to the flow chart illustrated in Fig. 18. For example, the washing process of the partial washing machine (100) may include a water spraying operation (3030) performed prior to a detergent spraying operation (3010).

[0272] In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) can perform a washing liquid spraying operation (3010).

[0273] For example, for the detergent spraying operation (3010), the control unit (180) can perform control so that the detergent spraying unit (102) moves to a target area (ta) of the target clothing and sprays detergent onto the target area (ta).

[0274] The control to move the detergent spray unit (102) to the target area (ta) of the target clothing and spray the detergent onto the target area (ta) may include moving the partial washing machine (100) so that the position of the detergent spray unit (102) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing, and controlling the washing machine (100a) so that the detergent spray unit (102) sprays the detergent based on the alignment of the position of the detergent spray unit (102) with the target area (ta) of the target clothing.

[0275] Moving the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the detergent spray unit (102) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing may include controlling the moving device (200) to move the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the detergent spray unit (102) is aligned with the target area (ta).

[0276] In one embodiment, controlling the washing machine (100a) to spray the detergent solution from the detergent spray unit (102) may include operating the water supply pump (140). According to various embodiments, when the water supply pump (140) is operated, water may also be sprayed from the water spray unit (101).

[0277] In one embodiment, controlling the washing machine (100a) so that the detergent spray unit (102) sprays detergent may include operating the water supply pump (140) and controlling at least one damper or valve to allow the supply of water to the detergent spray unit (102). According to various embodiments, when the water supply pump (140) is operated and at least one damper or valve is controlled to allow the supply of water to the detergent spray unit (102), water may not be sprayed from the water spray unit (101).

[0278] Controlling at least one damper or valve to allow the supply of water to the cleaning solution spray unit (102) may include controlling the damper or valve to close the first water supply hose (141) and open the third water supply hose (143).

[0279] In one embodiment, controlling the washing machine (100a) to spray the detergent solution by the detergent injection unit (102) may include operating the detergent solution pump.

[0280] According to various embodiments, for the washing liquid spraying operation (3010), the control unit (180) may move the partial washing device (100) so that the water spraying unit (101) and the washing liquid spraying unit (102) are aligned with the target area (ta), and control the washing device (100a) to spray water and washing liquid simultaneously through the water spraying unit (101) and the washing liquid spraying unit (102).

[0281] According to various embodiments, the partial washing machine (100) may perform a water spraying operation (3030) before a washing liquid spraying operation (3010). For example, the control unit (180) may perform a control to cause the water spraying unit (101) to move to the target area (ta) and spray water onto the target area (ta), and then perform a control to cause the washing liquid spraying unit (102) to spray the washing liquid onto the target area (ta). According to the present disclosure, by spraying a predetermined amount of water before the washing liquid is sprayed onto the target area (ta), the washing liquid can be well absorbed into the clothes.

[0282] Referring to FIG. 19, the partial washing device (100) can move so that the washing liquid spray unit (102) and the target area (ta) are aligned before spraying the washing liquid through the washing liquid spray unit (102).

[0283] The alignment of the detergent spray unit (102) and the target area (ta) may include that an area corresponding to the detergent spray unit (102) overlaps at least partially with the target area (ta) when projected toward the lower surface of the partial washing device (100).

[0284] The partial washing device (100) can spray the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta) through the cleaning solution spray unit (102) based on the alignment of the cleaning solution spray unit (102) and the target area (ta).

[0285] In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) can perform a washing operation (3020). For example, the partial washing machine (100) can perform a washing operation (3020) after performing a washing liquid spraying operation (3010).

[0286] The washing operation (3020) may include an operation of separating contaminants of a target area (ta) from clothing by applying a mechanical force to the target area (ta) on which the detergent is applied.

[0287] For example, the washing operation (3020) may include a vibration stroke and / or a rolling stroke.

[0288] In one embodiment, for the washing operation (3020), the control unit (180) can perform control to cause the vibration unit (103) to move to a target portion (ta) of the target clothing and vibrate the target portion (ta).

[0289] The control to move the vibration unit (103) to the target part (ta) of the target clothing and vibrate the target part (ta) may include moving the partial washing machine (100) so that the position of the vibration unit (103) is aligned with the target part (ta) of the target clothing, and controlling the washing machine (100a) so that the vibration unit (103) vibrates based on the alignment of the position of the vibration unit (103) with the target part (ta) of the target clothing.

[0290] Moving the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the vibrating part (103) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing may include controlling the moving device (200) to move the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the vibrating part (103) is aligned with the target area (ta).

[0291] In one embodiment, controlling the washing machine (100a) to vibrate the vibrator (103) to vibrate the target area (ta) may include applying a voltage to the vibrator (103a).

[0292] In one embodiment, the control unit (180) may perform control to cause the cleaning solution spray unit (102) to spray the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), and then perform control to cause the vibration unit (103) to vibrate the target area (ta).

[0293] Referring to FIG. 20, the partial washing device (100) can move so that the vibrating part (103) and the target part (ta) are aligned before generating vibration through the vibrating part (103).

[0294] The alignment of the vibrating part (103) and the target part (ta) may include that the area corresponding to the vibrating part (103) overlaps at least partially with the target part (ta) when projected in the lower direction of the partial washing device (100).

[0295] The partial washing device (100) can provide vibration to the target area (ta) through the vibrating area (103) based on the alignment of the vibrating area (103) and the target area (ta).

[0296] When vibration is applied to the target area (ta), the cleaning solution sprayed on the target area (ta) can be separated from the target clothing after being mixed with the contaminants of the target area (ta).

[0297] In one embodiment, for the washing operation (3020), the control unit (180) can perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area (ta) at least once.

[0298] In one embodiment, the control unit (180) may perform control to cause the cleaning solution spray unit (102) to spray the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), and then perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area (ta) at least once.

[0299] The control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate at least once on the target portion (ta) of the target clothing may include moving the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the roller unit (105) is aligned with the target portion (ta) of the target clothing, and moving the partial washing device (100) up and down at least once based on the position of the roller unit (105) being aligned with the target portion (ta) of the target clothing.

[0300] As another example, performing control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target portion (ta) of the target garment at least once may include moving the partial washing machine (100) so that the position of the roller unit (105) is aligned with the target portion (ta) of the target garment, and operating the drive motor (160) based on the alignment of the position of the roller unit (105) with the target portion (ta) of the target garment to provide driving force to the roller unit (105).

[0301] Moving the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the roller unit (105) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing may include controlling the moving device (200) to move the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the roller unit (105) is aligned with the target area (ta).

[0302] Referring to Fig. 21, the partial washing device (100) can move so that the roller portion (105) and the target portion (ta) are aligned.

[0303] The alignment of the roller part (105) and the target part (ta) may include that an area corresponding to the roller part (105) overlaps at least partially with the target part (ta) when projected in the lower direction of the partial washing device (100).

[0304] The partial washing device (100) can move the partial washing device (100) so that the roller part (105) moves up and down based on the alignment of the roller part (105) and the target part (ta), or can operate the drive motor (160) to provide rotational force to the roller part (105).

[0305] When the roller part (105) reciprocates at the target area (ta), the cleaning solution sprayed at the target area (ta) can be separated from the target clothing after being mixed with the contaminants at the target area (ta).

[0306] In one embodiment, when the partial washing machine (100) includes both a vibrating section (103) and a roller section (105), the washing operation (3020) may include both a vibrating stroke and a rolling stroke.

[0307] Once the contaminant is separated from the target area (ta), it is necessary to rinse the contaminant with water or discharge it to the outside.

[0308] To this end, the partial washing device (100) can perform a water spraying operation (3030) and / or a contaminated water suction operation (3040).

[0309] In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) can perform a water spraying operation (3030).

[0310] For example, for a water spraying operation (3030), the control unit (180) can perform control so that the water spraying unit (101) moves to a target area (ta) of the target clothing and sprays water on the target area (ta).

[0311] The control to move the water spray unit (101) to the target part (ta) of the target clothing and spray water on the target part (ta) may include moving the partial washing machine (100) so that the position of the water spray unit (101) is aligned with the target part (ta) of the target clothing, and controlling the washing machine (100a) so that the water spray unit (101) sprays water based on the alignment of the position of the water spray unit (101) with the target part (ta) of the target clothing.

[0312] Moving the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the water spray unit (101) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing may include controlling the moving device (200) to move the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the water spray unit (101) is aligned with the target area (ta).

[0313] In one embodiment, controlling the washing machine (100a) to cause the water jet unit (101) to jet water may include operating the water supply pump (140) and controlling at least one damper or valve to allow the supply of water to the water jet unit (101).

[0314] Controlling at least one damper or valve to allow the supply of water to the water injection unit (101) may include controlling the damper or valve to open the first water supply hose (141) and close the third water supply hose (143).

[0315] In one embodiment, the control unit (180) may perform control so that the detergent spray unit (102) sprays detergent onto the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the water spray unit (101) sprays water onto the target area (ta). For example, the control unit (180) may perform control so that the detergent spray unit (102) sprays detergent onto the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the vibration unit (103) vibrates the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the water spray unit (101) sprays water onto the target area (ta). As another example, the control unit (180) may perform control so that the detergent spray unit (102) sprays detergent onto the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the roller unit (105) reciprocates at least once around the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the water spray unit (101) sprays water onto the target area (ta).

[0316] Referring to FIG. 22, the partial washing device (100) can move so that the water spray unit (101) and the target area (ta) are aligned before spraying water through the water spray unit (101).

[0317] The alignment of the water spray unit (101) and the target area (ta) may include that an area corresponding to the water spray unit (101) overlaps at least partially with the target area (ta) when projected in the lower direction of the partial washing device (100).

[0318] The partial washing device (100) can spray water onto the target area (ta) through the water spray unit (101) based on the alignment of the water spray unit (101) and the target area (ta).

[0319] In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may perform a contaminated water suction operation (3040). For example, the partial washing device (100) may perform a contaminated water suction operation (3040) after performing a water spray operation (3030). As another example, the partial washing device (100) may perform a contaminated water suction operation (3040) immediately after performing a washing operation (3020) and skip the water spraying process (3030).

[0320] In one embodiment, for the contaminated water suction operation (3040), the control unit (180) can perform control so that the suction unit (104) moves to the target area (ta) of the target clothing and sucks the contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0321] The control to move the suction unit (104) to the target area (ta) of the target clothing and suck up contaminated water from the target area (ta) may include moving the partial washing machine (100) so that the position of the suction unit (104) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing, and controlling the washing machine (100a) so that the suction unit (104) provides suction power based on the alignment of the position of the suction unit (104) with the target area (ta) of the target clothing.

[0322] Moving the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the suction unit (104) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing may include controlling the moving device (200) to move the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the suction unit (104) is aligned with the target area (ta).

[0323] In one embodiment, controlling the washing device (100a) so that the suction unit (104) sucks contaminated water from the target area (ta) may include operating the drain pump (150).

[0324] In one embodiment, the control unit (180) may perform control to cause the cleaning solution spray unit (102) to spray the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), and then perform control to cause the suction unit (104) to suck up contaminated water from the target area (ta). For example, the control unit (180) may perform control to cause the cleaning solution spray unit (102) to spray the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), and then perform control to cause the vibration unit (103) to vibrate the target area (ta), and then perform control to cause the water spray unit (101) to spray water onto the target area (ta), and then perform control to cause the suction unit (104) to suck up contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0325] As another example, the control unit (180) may perform control so that the cleaning solution spray unit (102) sprays the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), then perform control so that the roller unit (105) reciprocates the target area (ta) at least once, then perform control so that the water spray unit (101) sprays water onto the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the suction unit (104) sucks in contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0326] As another example, the control unit (180) may perform control so that the cleaning solution spray unit (102) sprays the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), then perform control so that the water spray unit (101) sprays water onto the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the suction unit (104) sucks contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0327] As another example, the control unit (180) may perform control to cause the cleaning solution spray unit (102) to spray the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), and then immediately perform control to cause the suction unit (104) to suck up contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0328] Referring to FIG. 23, the partial washing device (100) can be moved so that the suction unit (104) and the target area (ta) are aligned before providing suction force through the suction unit (104).

[0329] The alignment of the suction part (104) and the target area (ta) may include that an area corresponding to the suction part (104) overlaps at least partially with the target area (ta) when projected in the lower direction of the partial washing device (100).

[0330] The partial washing device (100) can provide suction power through the suction unit (104) based on the alignment of the suction unit (104) and the target area (ta).

[0331] That is, the partial washing device (100) can operate the drain pump (150) based on the alignment of the suction portion (104) and the target portion (ta).

[0332] According to the present disclosure, contaminated water separated from target clothing by a washing operation (3020) can be discharged into a drain (122).

[0333] In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) can compare the contamination level of the target area (ta) with a predetermined contamination level (reference contamination level) (3050). The partial washing device (100) can repeatedly perform the cleaning solution spraying operation (3010), the washing operation (3020), the water spraying operation (3030), and / or the contaminated water suction operation (3040) until the contamination level of the target area (ta) becomes lower than the predetermined contamination level.

[0334] For example, the partial washing device (100) can repeatedly perform the cleaning solution spraying operation (3010) and the contaminated water suction operation (3040) until the contamination level of the target area (ta) becomes lower than a predetermined contamination level (reference contamination level).

[0335] The control unit (180) can determine the reference contamination level based on the contamination level of the target area (ta) of the target clothing and other adjacent areas.

[0336] In one embodiment, the reference contamination level may correspond to the contamination level of another area adjacent to the target area (ta) of the target garment. In one embodiment, the reference contamination level may be determined by multiplying the initial contamination level of the target area (ta) by a predetermined value (e.g., 1 / 2).

[0337] According to the present disclosure, operations for washing a target area (ta) can be performed until the target area (ta) is washed cleanly.

[0338] According to various embodiments, operation 3050 may be omitted. In this case, the partial washing device (100) may perform the drying operation (3060) after the contaminated water suction operation (3040).

[0339] In one embodiment, for the drying operation (3060), the control unit (180) can perform control to move the heating unit (104a) to the target area (ta) of the target clothing and heat the target area (ta).

[0340] The control to move the heating unit (104a) to the target area (ta) of the target clothing and heat the target area (ta) may include moving the partial washing machine (100) so that the position of the heating unit (104a) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing, and controlling the washing machine (100a) so that the heating unit (104a) supplies heat based on the alignment of the position of the heating unit (104a) with the target area (ta) of the target clothing.

[0341] Moving the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the heating part (104a) is aligned with the target area (ta) of the target clothing may include controlling the moving device (200) to move the partial washing device (100) so that the position of the heating part (104a) is aligned with the target area (ta).

[0342] In one embodiment, controlling the washing machine (100a) so that the heating element (104a) heats the target area (ta) may include operating an electric heating element of the heating element (104a).

[0343] Controlling the heating unit (104a) to heat the target area (ta) may include repeating turning the electric heating element on and off so as not to damage the clothing.

[0344] Referring to FIG. 24, the partial washing device (100) can be moved so that the heating unit (104a) and the target area (ta) are aligned before operating the electric heating element of the heating unit (104a).

[0345] The alignment of the heating part (104a) and the target part (ta) may include that the area corresponding to the heating part (104a) overlaps at least partially with the target part (ta) when projected toward the lower surface of the partial washing device (100).

[0346] The partial washing device (100) can apply heat to the target area (ta) through the heating area (104a) based on the alignment of the heating area (104a) and the target area (ta).

[0347] In one embodiment, the control unit (180) can perform control so that the heating unit (104a) heats the target area (ta) until the dryness of the target area (ta) falls below a predetermined dryness level.

[0348] For example, the control unit (180) can perform control so that the heating unit (104a) heats the target area (ta) until the dryness of the target area (ta) drops below a predetermined dryness level based on data collected by a dryness sensor that detects the dryness of the target area (ta).

[0349] According to the present disclosure, the washing process is terminated after the target area (ta) is completely dried, thereby increasing user convenience.

[0350] Fig. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method of a partial washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0351] Referring to FIG. 25, a partial washing machine (100) according to one embodiment can identify the material of target clothing (4010).

[0352] In one embodiment, the partial washing machine (100) may include a sensor for detecting the material of the target garment.

[0353] In one embodiment, the sensor for detecting the material of the target garment may include at least one sensor (108) described above (e.g., a camera and / or an optical sensor).

[0354] The control unit (180) can identify the material of the clothing by using data (e.g., image data and / or light quantity data) collected by at least one sensor (108) as input data of an artificial intelligence model learned to determine the material of the clothing.

[0355] The artificial intelligence model learned to determine the material of clothing may be stored in the partial washing machine (100) or may be stored in an external device.

[0356] If the learned artificial intelligence model for determining the material of clothing is stored in an external device, the control unit (180) can control the communication unit (190) to transmit data (e.g., image data and / or light quantity data) collected by at least one sensor (108) to the external device. The external device can input data collected by at least one sensor (108) received from the partial washing machine (100) into the learned artificial intelligence model for determining the material of clothing to identify the material, and then transmit data regarding the material of the clothing to the partial washing machine (100).

[0357] In one embodiment, a sensor for detecting the material of a target garment may include a near-field communication reader (e.g., an RFID reader). The near-field communication reader may obtain material information about the garment from a near-field communication tag attached to the target garment.

[0358] In one embodiment, the sensor for detecting the material of the target garment may be an input interface device (170a).

[0359] The user can select the material of the target clothing through the input interface device (170a).

[0360] A partial washing device (100) according to one embodiment can identify the type of contaminant in a target area (4020).

[0361] In one embodiment, the partial washing device (100) may include a sensor for detecting the type of contaminant in the target area.

[0362] In one embodiment, the sensor for detecting the type of contaminant at the target site may include at least one sensor (108) described above (e.g., a camera and / or a light sensor).

[0363] The control unit (180) can identify the type of pollutant by using data (e.g., image data and / or light quantity data) collected by at least one sensor (108) as input data of an artificial intelligence model learned to determine the type of pollutant.

[0364] The learned artificial intelligence model to determine the type of pollutant may be stored in the partial washing machine (100) or may be stored in an external device.

[0365] If the learned artificial intelligence model for determining the type of pollutant is stored in an external device, the control unit (180) can control the communication unit (190) to transmit data (e.g., image data and / or light quantity data) collected by at least one sensor (108) to the external device. The external device can input data collected by at least one sensor (108) received from the partial washing machine (100) into the learned artificial intelligence model for determining the type of pollutant, identify the material, and then transmit data regarding the type of pollutant to the partial washing machine (100).

[0366] In one embodiment, the sensor for detecting the type of contaminant may be an input interface device (170a).

[0367] The user can select the type of pollutant through the input interface device (170a).

[0368] Contaminants can be classified into at least two types. For example, contaminants can be classified into two types: one type that can be removed from clothing (e.g., dust), and the other type that cannot be removed from clothing (e.g., stains).

[0369] The partial washing machine (100) can wash target clothing in a washing method according to the material and / or type of contaminant of the target clothing (4030).

[0370] In one embodiment, the control unit (108) may perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area at least once before performing control to cause the detergent spray unit (102) to move to the target area of ​​the target garment and spray detergent onto the target area based on the identification of the contaminant in the target area as a contaminant of a predetermined type (e.g., a first type).

[0371] Thereafter, the control unit (180) can identify the type of contaminant in the target area once again, and can terminate the washing cycle or perform a simplified washing cycle (e.g., a washing cycle including only a detergent spray cycle and a suction cycle) based on the removal of the contaminant in the target area.

[0372] In one embodiment, the control unit (108) may perform a conventional washing cycle (e.g., a washing cycle including a detergent spray cycle, a suction cycle, and a vibration cycle and / or a rolling cycle) based on the identification of the contaminant in the target area as a contaminant of a predetermined type (e.g., a second type).

[0373] According to the present disclosure, a partial washing machine (100) is provided that efficiently performs a washing operation depending on the type of contaminant in a target area.

[0374] In one embodiment, the control unit (108) may perform control to cause the vibration unit (103) to move to the target area and vibrate the target area based on the material of the target clothing, or may perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area at least once.

[0375] Depending on the material of the garment, ultrasonic vibrations can cause damage. For example, if the garment is made of fabric or nylon, ultrasonic vibrations can cause damage.

[0376] In one embodiment, the control unit (108) may only perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area at least once without performing control to cause the vibrating unit (103) to move to the target area and vibrate the target area based on the fact that the material of the target clothing corresponds to a first material defined in advance as being weak to ultrasonic vibration.

[0377] On the other hand, the control unit (108) can perform control to cause the vibrating unit (103) to move to the target area and vibrate the target area based on the fact that the material of the target clothing corresponds to a second material defined in advance as being resistant to ultrasonic vibration.

[0378] In one embodiment, the control unit (108) may perform both control to move the vibrating unit (103) to the target area and vibrate the target area based on whether the material of the target clothing corresponds to a second material that is predefined as being resistant to ultrasonic vibration, and control to move the roller unit (105) back and forth at least once around the target area.

[0379] For example, the control unit (108) may control the partial washing device (100) to perform a washing liquid spraying stroke, a vibration stroke, a water spraying stroke, and then a rolling stroke. As another example, the control unit (108) may control the partial washing device (100) to perform a washing liquid spraying stroke, a rolling stroke, a water spraying stroke, and then a vibration stroke.

[0380] According to the present disclosure, a partial washing machine (100) capable of efficiently partially washing clothes without damaging the clothes is provided.

[0381] According to the present disclosure, efficient washing of a target area (ta) can be achieved through organic operations of a partial washing device (100).

[0382] According to the present disclosure, even if the user does not directly operate the partial washing device (100), the partial washing device (100) can automatically wash the target area (ta).

[0383] A partial washing machine (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing liquid spraying unit (102) configured to spray a washing liquid; a suction unit (104) configured to suck up contaminated water; and a control unit (180) that controls a moving unit (200) that moves the partial washing machine (100). The control unit (180) can perform control so that the washing liquid spraying unit (102) moves to a target area (ta) of target clothing and sprays the washing liquid onto the target area (ta), and can perform control so that the suction unit (104) moves to the target area (ta) and sucks up contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0384] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a water spray unit (101).

[0385] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a vibration unit (103).

[0386] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a roller part (105).

[0387] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a heating unit (104a).

[0388] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a dryness sensor that detects the dryness of the target area (ta).

[0389] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a sensor (108) for detecting a contaminated portion of the target clothing.

[0390] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a sensor (108) for detecting the type of contaminant in the target area.

[0391] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a sensor (108) for detecting the material of the target clothing.

[0392] The above partial washing machine (100) may further include a fixing part configured to fix the target clothing to the fixing plate.

[0393] The above partial washing device (100) may further include an input interface device (170a).

[0394] The above-mentioned partial washing device (100) may further include a communication unit (190) configured to communicate with an external device.

[0395] The above-mentioned partial washing device (100) may further include a washing liquid container for storing the washing liquid; and a washing liquid pump for supplying the washing liquid stored in the washing liquid container to the washing liquid spray unit (102).

[0396] The above-mentioned partial washing machine (100) may further include a connecting hose (133) including a first inlet, a second inlet, and a first outlet connected to the detergent spray unit (102); a water tank (120) storing water and connected to the first inlet; a detergent hose (132) including a third inlet and a second outlet, the second outlet being connected to the second inlet; a detergent container (131) storing detergent and connected to the third inlet; and a water supply pump (140) for pumping water stored in the water tank (120) to the connecting hose (133) so that a detergent produced by mixing water and detergent in the connecting hose (133) is supplied to the detergent spray unit (102).

[0397] The above partial washing device (100) may further include a battery (118b) that supplies power to the moving device (200).

[0398] The above control unit (180) can perform control to cause the heating unit (104a) to move to the target area (ta) and heat the target area (ta).

[0399] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the cleaning solution spray unit (102) sprays the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the suction unit (104) sucks contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0400] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the suction unit (104) sucks contaminated water from the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the heating unit (104a) heats the target area (ta).

[0401] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the heating unit (104a) heats the target area (ta) until the dryness of the target area (ta) falls below a predetermined dryness level.

[0402] The above control unit (180) can perform control to cause the vibrating unit (103) to move to the target area (ta) and vibrate the target area (ta).

[0403] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the cleaning solution spray unit (102) sprays the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the vibration unit (103) vibrates the target area (ta).

[0404] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the vibration unit (103) vibrates the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the suction unit (104) sucks contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0405] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the vibrating unit (103) vibrates the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the water spray unit (101) moves to the target area (ta) and sprays water on the target area (ta).

[0406] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the water injection unit (101) sprays water on the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the suction unit (104) sucks contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0407] Controlling the above-described cleaning solution spray unit (102) to spray the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta) may include controlling the water spray unit (101) to spray water.

[0408] The above control unit (180) can perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area (ta) at least once.

[0409] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the cleaning solution spray unit (102) sprays the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the roller unit (105) moves back and forth around the target area (ta) at least once.

[0410] The above control unit (180) can perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area (ta) at least once, and then perform control to cause the suction unit (104) to suck up contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0411] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the roller unit (105) moves back and forth at least once on the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the water spray unit (101) moves to the target area (ta) and sprays water on the target area (ta).

[0412] The above control unit (180) can perform control so that the water injection unit (101) sprays water on the target area (ta), and then perform control so that the suction unit (104) sucks contaminated water from the target area (ta).

[0413] The control unit (180) can identify a contaminated portion of the target clothing based on sensor data collected from the sensor (108) and determine the contaminated portion as the target area (ta).

[0414] The above control unit (180) can repeatedly perform control so that the cleaning solution spray unit (102) sprays the cleaning solution onto the target area (ta) and then the suction unit (104) sucks up the contaminated water from the target area (ta) until the contamination level of the contaminated area becomes lower than a predetermined contamination level.

[0415] The above control unit (180) can perform control to move the heating unit (104a) to the target area (ta) and heat the target area (ta) based on the fact that the contamination level of the contaminated area is lower than the predetermined contamination level.

[0416] The control unit (180) may perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area (ta) at least once before performing control to cause the detergent spray unit (102) to move to the target area (ta) of the target clothing and spray the detergent onto the target area (ta), based on the identification of the contaminant of the target area (ta) as a predetermined type of contaminant.

[0417] The control unit (180) may perform control to cause the vibration unit (105) to move to the target area (ta) and vibrate the target area (ta), or may perform control to cause the roller unit (105) to reciprocate the target area (ta) at least once, based on the material of the target clothing (ta).

[0418] The control unit (180) can perform control to cause the detergent spray unit (102) to spray the detergent onto the target area (ta) based on receiving a user input for starting the washing cycle through the input interface device (170a).

[0419] The control unit (180) can perform control to cause the detergent spray unit (102) to spray the detergent onto the target area (ta) based on receiving a control signal for starting a washing process from the external device through the communication unit (190).

[0420] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0421] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0422] Additionally, a computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0423] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0424] 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. In a partial washing machine, A detergent spray unit configured to spray a detergent; A suction unit configured to suck up contaminated water; and A control unit for controlling a moving device that moves the above-mentioned partial washing device; The above control unit, A partial washing machine in which the above-mentioned detergent spraying unit performs control to move to a target area of ​​target clothing and spray the detergent onto the target area, and the above-mentioned suction unit performs control to move to the target area and suck up contaminated water from the target area.

2. In paragraph 1, further comprising a heating unit; The above control unit, A partial washing machine that performs control so that the heating part moves to the target part and heats the target part.

3. In paragraph 2, The above control unit, After the above-mentioned cleaning solution spraying unit performs control to spray the cleaning solution on the target area, the above-mentioned suction unit performs control to suck up contaminated water from the target area. A partial washing device in which the heating unit performs control to heat the target area after the suction unit performs control to suck contaminated water from the target area.

4. In paragraph 3, Further comprising a dryness sensor for detecting the dryness of the target area; The above control unit, A partial washing device that performs control so that the heating unit heats the target area until the dryness of the target area falls below a predetermined dryness level.

5. In paragraph 1, Including a vibrating part; The above control unit, A partial washing machine that performs control so that the vibrating part moves to the target part and vibrates the target part.

6. In paragraph 5, The above control unit, After the above-mentioned cleaning solution spraying unit performs control to spray the cleaning solution on the target area, the above-mentioned vibrating unit performs control to vibrate the target area. A partial washing device that performs control so that the vibrating part vibrates the target part, and then performs control so that the suction part sucks contaminated water from the target part.

7. In paragraph 6, further comprising a water jet; The above control unit, After the above vibrating part performs control to vibrate the target part, the water spraying part performs control to move to the target part and spray water on the target part. A partial washing device in which the water spray unit performs control to spray water on the target area, and then the suction unit performs control to suck up contaminated water from the target area.

8. In paragraph 1, further comprising a water jet; The control is performed so that the above-mentioned detergent spraying unit sprays the detergent onto the target area. A partial washing machine including a control unit that causes the water spray unit to spray water.

9. In paragraph 1, Including roller section; The above control unit, A partial washing machine that performs control so that the roller part reciprocates the target part at least once.

10. In paragraph 9, The above control unit, After the control is performed so that the above-mentioned cleaning solution spraying unit sprays the cleaning solution on the target area, the control is performed so that the roller unit reciprocates the target area at least once, A partial washing machine that performs control so that the roller part reciprocates the target part at least once, and then performs control so that the suction part sucks contaminated water from the target part.

11. In paragraph 10, further comprising a water jet; The above control unit, After performing a control to cause the roller part to reciprocate the target part at least once, a control is performed to cause the water spray part to move to the target part and spray water on the target part. A partial washing device in which the water spray unit performs control to spray water on the target area, and then the suction unit performs control to suck up contaminated water from the target area.

12. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a sensor for detecting a contaminated portion of the target clothing; The above control unit, A partial washing device that identifies a contaminated portion of the target clothing based on sensor data collected from the sensor and determines the contaminated portion as the target portion.

13. In paragraph 12, The above control unit, A partial washing device that repeatedly performs a control such that the cleaning solution spraying unit sprays the cleaning solution on the target area and then the suction unit sucks up contaminated water from the target area until the contamination level of the contaminated area becomes lower than a predetermined contamination level.

14. In paragraph 13, further comprising a heating unit; The above control unit, A partial washing device that performs control so that the heating unit moves to the target area and heats the target area based on the contamination level of the contaminated area being lower than the predetermined contamination level.

15. In paragraph 1, Roller section; and Further comprising a sensor for detecting the type of contaminant in the target area; The above control unit, A partial washing machine that performs control to cause the roller unit to reciprocate the target unit at least once before performing control to move the detergent spray unit to the target unit of the target clothing and spray the detergent onto the target unit based on the identification of the contaminant of the target unit as a predetermined type of contaminant.

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