Clothes treating apparatus

Abstract

This clothes treating apparatus comprises: a tub; a drying device supplying dry air to the tub, and including a drying case in which an evaporator and a condenser are mounted; a filter mounted in the drying device so as to be removable therefrom; and a sealing member for sealing the gap between the filter and the drying case when the filter is mounted in the drying device. The drying case includes: a filter rail for guiding the filter such that the sealing member is spaced apart from the drying case while the filter is being mounted in the drying device; and a contact guide for guiding the filter such that the sealing member comes into close contact with the drying case when the filter is mounted in the drying device.

Description

Garment processing equipment

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

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

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

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

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

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment treatment device capable of reducing damage to a sealing member sealing between a filter and a drying device.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment treatment device in which a filter can be easily mounted on a drying device.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment treatment device capable of reducing air leakage into a filter.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a garment treatment device capable of stably fixing a filter to a drying device.

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a clothes treatment device having improved performance of a filter mounted on a drying device.

[0011] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0012] A clothing treatment device according to the invention comprises a tub, a drying device configured to supply dry air to the tub, the drying device including a drying case equipped with an evaporator and a condenser, a filter detachably mountable to the drying device, and a sealing member for sealing between the filter and the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device. The drying case includes a filter rail for guiding the filter so that the sealing member is spaced apart from the drying case while the filter is mounted on the drying device, and a contact guide for guiding the filter so that the sealing member is in close contact with the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0013] A clothes treatment device according to the invention comprises a tub, a drying device configured to supply dry air to the tub, the drying device including a drying case equipped with an evaporator and a condenser, a filter detachably mountable to the drying device, and a sealing member for sealing between the filter and the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device. The drying case includes a filter rail for guiding the filter so that the sealing member is spaced apart from the drying case while the filter is mounted on the drying device, a contact guide provided to press a rear end of the filter so that the sealing member is pressed against the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device, and a case support provided to press a front end of the filter so that the sealing member is pressed against the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates a part of a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates a configuration arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0018] FIG. 5 is an exploded view showing a part of a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 is an exploded view showing a part of a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates a drying base and filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a different orientation than in FIG. 6.

[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a drying base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of part A shown in Figure 6.

[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates a portion of a dry case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 12 illustrates a state in which a filter cover is mounted on a filter body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 13 shows a cross-section along the line B-B' shown in Figure 12.

[0027] FIG. 14 illustrates a state in which a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a clothing treatment device.

[0028] FIG. 15 illustrates a state in which a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is inserted into a drying case to a first position.

[0029] Figure 16 shows a cross-section along the line C-C' shown in Figure 15.

[0030] Figure 17 is an enlarged view of part D shown in Figure 16.

[0031] Figure 18 shows a cross-section along the line E-E' shown in Figure 15.

[0032] FIG. 19 illustrates a state in which a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is inserted into a drying case to a second position.

[0033] Figure 20 shows a cross-section along the line F-F' shown in Figure 19.

[0034] Figure 21 is an enlarged view of the G portion shown in Figure 20.

[0035] FIG. 22 illustrates a state in which a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is inserted into a drying case to a third position.

[0036] Figure 23 shows a cross-section along the line H-H' shown in Figure 22.

[0037] Figure 24 is an enlarged view of part I shown in Figure 23.

[0038] Figure 25 shows a cross-section along the line J-J' shown in Figure 22.

[0039] Figure 26 is an enlarged view of the K portion shown in Figure 25.

[0040] Figure 27 shows a cross-section along the line L-L' shown in Figure 22.

[0041] 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.

[0042] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. A washing machine is an example of a clothing treatment device, and the term "clothing treatment device" encompasses devices that wash clothing (laundry items, drying items), devices that dry clothing, and devices that can perform both washing and drying of clothing.

[0052] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include top-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet for loading or removing laundry is provided facing upward, or front-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet is provided facing forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines of other loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0053] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine with a dryer that can dry the laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine with a dryer may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. For example, the washing machine with a dryer may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine with a washing method other than the washing method described above.

[0054] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components therein. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet formed on one side.

[0055] A washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry compartment. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing to be viewed.

[0056] A washing machine may include a tub provided within a housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned within the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0057] The tub may be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated when the drum rotates, thereby reducing the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0058] A washing machine may include a drum configured to accommodate laundry.

[0059] The drum may be positioned within the tub such that the drum opening provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may be sequentially passed through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening to be accommodated within the drum or taken out from the drum.

[0060] The drum rotates within the tub and can perform each of the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration operations. The cylindrical wall of the drum is formed with a number of perforations, allowing water stored in the tub to flow into or out of the drum.

[0061] A washing machine may include a drive device configured to rotate a drum. The drive device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may be connected to the drum by penetrating the tub.

[0062] The driving device can rotate the drum forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0063] A washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to a tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided on the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub via the detergent supply device. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0064] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water source. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0065] A washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to a tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to add detergent for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically supplies a predetermined amount of detergent during a wash cycle. The detergent supply device may include a detergent compartment for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through a water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent compartment may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0066] A washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water in the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0067] The washing machine may include a control panel positioned on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for a user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0068] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0069] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0070] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0071] For example, at least one output interface may transmit information related to the washing cycle and operating time of the washing machine, as well as washing / rinsing / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0072] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with external devices via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0073] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0074] The communication module can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance). For example, the communication module can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various data.

[0075] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with the external device via a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as a server, a user device, and other home appliances through a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or the user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or the user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine, such as a drive motor and a water inlet valve. The control unit can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one cycle, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to a user input. For example, the control unit can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, or control the water inlet valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0079] The control unit may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine, at least one memory storing program-type data, and at least one processor performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0080] Hereinafter, various embodiments of a garment treatment device will be specifically described with reference to the attached drawings. While a washing machine / dryer is described as an example of a garment treatment device, the concepts of the present disclosure are not limited to washing machines / dryers, and can be applied to various devices for treating and / or managing garments.

[0081] The terms “front,” “rear,” “left,” and “right” used in the description below are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0082] For example, the X-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction, the Y-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction.

[0083] FIG. 1 illustrates a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a portion of a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates a component arranged inside a garment treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from a different direction than that illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of a portion of a drying device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may include a housing (10) that accommodates various components therein. The housing (10) may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet (11) formed on one side. The laundry inlet (11) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0085] The garment treatment device (1) may include a laundry door (17) for opening and closing the laundry inlet (11). The laundry door (17) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (10) by a hinge. At least a portion of the laundry door (17) may be transparent or translucent so as to allow the interior of the housing (10) to be visible. For example, the laundry door (17) may include tempered glass.

[0086] The garment treatment device (1) may include a lower door (18) configured to allow access to a lower detergent supply device (60). The garment treatment device (1) may include an upper door (19) configured to allow access to an upper detergent supply device (50) and a filter (95).

[0087] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a tub (20) provided inside the housing (10) to store water. The tub (20) is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening (21) formed on one side, and may be arranged inside the housing (10) so that the tub opening (21) corresponds to the laundry inlet (11). The tub opening (21) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0088] The tub (20) can be connected to the housing (10) by a damper (25). The damper (25) can absorb vibrations generated when the drum (30) rotates and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing (10).

[0089] A clothing treatment device (1) may include a drum (30) configured to accommodate laundry. At least one lifter (33) may be provided inside the drum (30) to perform washing by raising and lowering laundry.

[0090] The drum (30) may be placed inside the tub (20) such that the drum opening (31) provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet (11) and the tub opening (21). Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet (11), the tub opening (21) and the drum opening (31) in sequence to be accommodated inside the drum (30) or taken out from the drum (30). The drum opening (31) may be provided to face approximately forward.

[0091] The drum (30) can perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration process while rotating inside the tub (20). A plurality of holes (32) are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum (30), so that water stored in the tub (20) can flow into the inside of the drum (30) or flow out from the outside of the drum (30).

[0092] The garment treatment device (1) may include a driving device (36) configured to rotate a drum (30). The driving device (36) may include a driving motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the driving motor to the drum (30). The rotating shaft may pass through the tub (20) and be connected to the drum (30).

[0093] The driving device (36) can rotate the drum (30) forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0094] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a water supply device (40) configured to supply water to the tub (20). The water supply device (40) may include a water supply valve (41, 42) that can be connected to an external water source. For example, the water supply valve (41, 42) may include a hot water valve (41) for supplying hot water and a cold water valve (42) for supplying cold water.

[0095] The water supply device (40) may include a water supply pipe (43, 44). The water supply pipe (43, 44) may be connected to a water supply valve (41, 42). For example, the water supply pipe (43, 44) may be provided as a hose or pipe made of a flexible material.

[0096] For example, the water supply pipes (43, 44) may include a hot water pipe (43) connected to a hot water valve (41) and a cold water pipe (44) connected to a cold water valve (42). At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) may guide water from the water supply valve (41, 42) to the tub (20). At least one of the water supply pipes (43, 44) may extend from the water supply valve (62) to the tub (20). Water may be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (60) via the tub (20). Water may also be supplied to the lower detergent supply device (60) without passing through the tub (20).

[0097] The water supply valves (41, 42) can open or close the water supply pipes (43, 44) in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valves (41, 42) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (20). The water supply valves (41, 42) can include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0098] The garment treatment device (1) may include a detergent supply device (50, 60) configured to supply detergent to the tub (20). The detergent supply device (50, 60) may include an upper detergent supply device (50) and a lower detergent supply device (60). The term "detergent" may be used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.

[0099] The upper detergent supply device (50) may be located at the upper part of the tub (20). The upper detergent supply device (50) may be located above the tub (20) in the vertical direction. The upper detergent supply device (50) may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to add detergent for each wash, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during the wash. The upper detergent supply device (50) may be connected to the tub (20) via a detergent connection pipe (51). For example, the upper detergent supply device (50) may be provided to supply solid detergent and / or fabric softener to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described examples.

[0100] The lower detergent supply device (60) may be located at the bottom of the tub (20). The lower detergent supply device (60) may be located vertically lower than the tub (20). The lower detergent supply device (60) may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to add detergent for each wash, or an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during the wash. For example, the lower detergent supply device (60) may be provided to supply liquid detergent and / or fabric softener to the tub (20). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above-described examples.

[0101] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a drainage device (70) configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20) to the outside. The drainage device (70) may include a drainage pump (71) for discharging water in the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10).

[0102] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a circulation pump (76) to circulate water in the tub (20) back to the tub (20) through the lower detergent supply device (86).

[0103] The drainage device (70) can be connected to the tub (20) through a tub connection pipe (72). The drainage device (70) can discharge water from the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10) through a drain pipe (73).

[0104] The garment treatment device (1) may include a control panel (15) arranged on one side of the housing (10). The control panel (15) may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the garment treatment device (1). The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0105] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0106] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0107] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the garment treatment device (1) to the user.

[0108] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the washing course and the operating time of the garment treatment device (1), and washing settings / rinsing settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the garment treatment device can be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0109] The clothing treatment device (1) may include a drying device (80) for drying laundry accommodated inside a drum (30). The drying device (80) may be configured to heat air and supply it to the inside of a tub (20). The drying device (80) may be configured to dry and heat air discharged from the tub (20) and circulate the dried and heated air into the inside of the tub (20) to dry clothing inside the drum (30). The drying device (80) according to various embodiments may be arranged on top of the tub (20).

[0110] The drying device (80) may include a drying case (81) in which a heat pump for drying air may be installed. The drying case (81) may include a drying base (81a) and a drying cover (81b) that is coupled to the drying base (81a) and is provided to form a path through which air can move. The drying cover (81b) may cover the open upper surface of the drying base (81a).

[0111] Referring to FIG. 5, as an example, the drying device (80) may include a rear cover (81c) that is attachable to the rear side of the drying base (81a). The rear cover (81c) may form at least a portion of the rear of the drying device (80). A water supply valve (41, 42) may be mounted on the rear cover (81c).

[0112] A drying device (80) according to various embodiments may be configured as a heat pump. The drying device (80) may include a compressor (91), a condenser (92), an evaporator (93), an expansion valve, and a refrigerant pipe (94) through which a refrigerant circulates. The compressor (91), the condenser (92), the evaporator (93), etc., which constitute the heat pump, may be placed in a drying case (81). For example, the drying device (80) may include a cooling fan (91a) for cooling the compressor (91). As an example, the drying device (80) may be mounted as a single module.

[0113] The compressor (91) compresses the refrigerant, and the compressed high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant can move to the condenser (92). The condenser (92) can cool the refrigerant and heat the surrounding air. The heated air can be introduced into the drum (30) to dry clothes.

[0114] The refrigerant expanded through the expansion valve can absorb heat in the evaporator (93) and cool the surrounding air. That is, the evaporator (93) can cool the high-temperature, humid air that has passed through the inside of the drum (30) and remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed passes through the condenser (92) and can be heated again while exchanging heat with the refrigerant passing through the condenser (92). That is, the condenser (92) can heat the air that has passed through the evaporator (93). The condenser (92) and the evaporator (93) can be referred to as a heat exchanger.

[0115] For example, the drying device (80) may further include a drying heater (99). The drying heater (99) may increase the drying efficiency of the drying device (80). For example, the drying device (80) may also replace heat pump components with the drying heater (99).

[0116] The drying heater (99) can heat the air flowing into the interior of the drying device (80). The drying heater (99) can be placed in the heating path (86). The drying heater (99) can be placed downstream from the condenser (92) along the flow of air passing through the drying device (80). In addition, the drying heater (99) can be provided in a relatively small size so as to minimize the resistance of the path. For example, the drying heater (99) can be a sheath heater.

[0117] A drying device (80) according to various embodiments may be placed on the upper side of the tub (20). An inlet passage (85) through which air discharged from the tub (20) flows may be formed in the drying device (80). A heating passage (86) may be formed in the drying device (80) for heat exchange with air flowing into the drying device (80) through the inlet passage (85). A supply passage (87) may be formed in the drying device (80) for supplying air that has passed through the heating passage (86) and has undergone heat exchange to the tub (20).

[0118] An inlet passage (85) may be provided so that air passing through the interior of the tub (20) may be introduced into the drying device (80). The inlet passage (85) may be located on the upper side of the tub (20). The inlet passage (85) may be connected to an exhaust passage (P) formed at the rear of the tub (20).

[0119] The drying device (80) may include an inlet guide (84) connected to the tub (20). The inlet guide (84) may guide air discharged from the tub (20) to an inlet passage (85). The inlet passage (85) may be communicated with an exhaust passage (P) formed in the tub (20) through the inlet guide (84). Air passing through the exhaust passage (P) may be introduced into the inlet passage (85) of the drying device (80) through the inlet guide (84).

[0120] A filter (95) may be provided in the inlet passage (85) to filter out foreign substances such as lint contained in the air flowing in through the exhaust passage (P) from the tub (20). The air flowing in through the inlet passage (85) may pass through the filter (95) and then move to the heating passage (86). The filter (95) may be located on the passage through which the air flowing into the drying device (80) moves to the evaporator (93) and the condenser (92).

[0121] A condenser (92) and an evaporator (93) may be arranged in the heating passage (86). The air flowing into the heating passage (86) may be humid because it has passed through the interior of the tub (20). The humid air may be cooled in the evaporator (93) arranged in the heating passage (86) to remove moisture. The air from which moisture has been removed in the evaporator (93) may be reheated by passing through the condenser (92).

[0122] The drying device (80) may include a nozzle device (96) for washing the condenser (92) and / or the evaporator (93). The nozzle device (96) may be provided in the heating passage (86). The nozzle device (96) may receive water from the water supply device (40) and spray the washing water toward the condenser (92) and / or the evaporator (93).

[0123] Meanwhile, a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a drain line (97) for guiding water discharged from a drying device (80). The drain line (97) may guide condensate generated in a heat exchanger of the drying device (80) to the outside of the drying device (80). The drain line (97) may guide washing water sprayed by a nozzle device (96) for washing the heat exchanger to the outside of the drying device (80). The drain line (97) may be connected to a drain device (70). Water discharged from the drying device (80) may flow to the drain device (70) along the drain line (97). Water flowing into the drain device (70) through the drain line (97) may be discharged to the outside of the clothing treatment device (1).

[0124] The supply path (87) may be arranged to supply heated air back into the interior of the tub (20) by passing through the condenser (92). The supply path (87) may be connected to the heating path (86) and may extend downward to discharge heated air toward the opening of the tub (20).

[0125] A supply fan (87a) may be provided in the supply path (87) to allow air to flow into the interior of the tub (20). That is, the supply fan (87a) may be provided to supply air to the laundry inside the drum (30). For example, the supply fan (87a) may include a sirocco fan.

[0126] The inlet path (85), the heating path (86), and the supply path (87) can circulate air into the interior of the tub (20) and the drying device (80).

[0127] A clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be arranged so that air discharged from a tub (20) sequentially passes through an inlet passage (85), a heating passage (86), and a supply passage (87) of a drying device (80) located on the upper side of the tub (20), and then is supplied into the interior of the tub (20).

[0128] Heated air from the drying device (80) can be supplied into the interior of the drum (30). In order to secure an area where the heated air supplied into the interior of the drum (30) comes into contact with the laundry, the tub exhaust port (27) may be provided at a position opposite to the air inlet (26) through which the heated air from the drying device (90) is supplied to the tub (20). In order to increase the distance and / or time that the heated air flows inside the drum (30) so that it can come into more contact with the laundry, the tub exhaust port (27) may be provided at a position opposite to the air inlet (26) through which the heated air from the drying device (80) is supplied to the tub (20). The supply path (87) for supplying the heated air into the interior of the drum (30) and the tub exhaust port (27) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. By increasing the area where the heated air comes into contact with the laundry, the drying efficiency can be improved.

[0129] The air inlet (26) and the tub exhaust port (27) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be positioned to maximize the use of heated air provided from the drying device (80). For example, the air inlet (26) may be positioned adjacent to the front of the tub (20), and the tub exhaust port (27) may be positioned adjacent to the rear of the tub (20).

[0130] The clothing treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may further include an exhaust path (P) for allowing air discharged from the inside of the tub (20) to flow to the drying device (80). The exhaust path (P) may be provided so that air discharged from the tub exhaust port (27) flows to the inlet path (85) of the drying device (80). The exhaust path (P) may be provided so as to discharge moist air that has passed through the tub (20). For example, the exhaust path (P) may be provided at the rear of the tub (20).

[0131] The air inside the tub (20) can be discharged to the tub duct (28) through the tub exhaust port (27) formed at the rear of the tub (20). The air discharged to the tub duct (28) can flow along the exhaust path (P) and be supplied to the drying device (80).

[0132] The garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may include a tub duct (28) for forming at least a portion of an exhaust path (P). For example, the tub duct (28) may be formed integrally with the tub (20). For example, the tub (20) may include the tub duct (28). The tub duct (28) may be provided to surround the tub exhaust port (27).

[0133] The garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may include a duct cover (29) for forming at least a portion of an exhaust path (P). The duct cover (29) may be provided to cover an open rear surface of a tub duct (28). For example, the tub (20) may include the duct cover (29). The duct cover (29) may form at least a portion of an exhaust path (P) through which air discharged through the tub exhaust port (27) flows to the drying device (80).

[0134] According to various embodiments, a clothing treatment device (1) can form an exhaust path (P) by combining a duct cover (29) with a tub duct (28).

[0135] According to one embodiment, a tub duct (28) may include a recessed portion (28a) that forms a portion of an exhaust path (P) through which air discharged from the inside of the tub (20) flows. A reinforcing rib (23) for reinforcing the rigidity of the tub (20) may be provided on the back surface of the tub (20), and the recessed portion (28a) may be provided as a portion that is recessed from an end of the reinforcing rib (23) protruding from the back surface of the tub (20). The recessed portion (28a) may be provided as a portion of the back surface of the tub (20) where the reinforcing rib (23) is not formed. A tub exhaust port (27) for discharging air from the inside of the tub (20) may be formed in the recessed portion (28a). The tub duct (28) may include a partition rib (28d) provided along the periphery of the recessed portion (28a). The partition rib (28d) can separate the area where the reinforcing rib (23) is formed and the area where the recessed portion (28a) is formed on the back surface of the tub (20).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the tub duct (28) may include a duct connection portion (28b) that forms another portion of the exhaust path (P) through which air passing through the recess portion (28a) flows. The duct connection portion (28b) may protrude outwardly from the outer surface of the tub (20). The duct connection portion (28b) may protrude approximately upwardly from the outer surface of the tub (20).

[0137] The duct connection portion (28b) can connect the drying device (80) and the recessed portion (28a). The duct connection portion (28b) can be connected to the inlet guide (84) of the drying device (80). The duct connection portion (28b) can form a single passage that forms an exhaust path (P) together with the recessed portion (28a) and the duct cover (29).

[0138] The duct connection portion (28b) may be covered by a duct cover (29). The duct connection portion (28b) may have one side open. The duct cover (29) may cover the open side of the duct connection portion (28b).

[0139] The duct cover (29) can cover both the recessed portion (28a) and the duct connection portion (28b). For example, the duct cover (29) can cover both the open side of the recessed portion (28a) and the open side of the duct connection portion (28b). An exhaust path (P) can be formed by the duct cover (29) covering the recessed portion (28a) and the duct connection portion (28b). For example, the duct cover (29) can cover only the recessed portion (28a).

[0140] The duct cover (29) may be provided to cover the open rear surface of the recessed portion (28a) and / or the open rear surface of the duct connection portion (28b). The exhaust passage (P) may be a single passage formed by the tub duct (28) and the duct cover (29).

[0141] The tub duct (28) may include a step portion (28c) for expanding the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage (P). The exhaust passage (P) may be provided so that the width of the portion formed by the duct connection portion (28b) is larger than the width of the portion formed in the recess portion (28a) by the step portion (28c).

[0142] The water supply valves (41, 42) of the clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can be positioned by utilizing the space left by the mounting structure. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the water supply valves (41, 42) can be mounted between the inlet guide (84) and the cooling fan (91a). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be positioned at the center of the rear of the drying device (80). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be positioned at the rear of the condenser (92). The water supply valves (41, 42) can be positioned in an area separated from a flow path through which drying air flows. The positions of the water supply valves (41, 42) are not limited thereto.

[0143] Meanwhile, a clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a washing water heater (24). The washing water heater (24) is provided at the lower side of the tub (20) and can heat the washing water during washing. In addition, the water supply device (40) can supply a certain amount of water to the lower side of the tub (20) through the exhaust passage (P) during the drying cycle, and the washing water heater (24) can heat the water supplied into the interior of the tub (20) through the water supply device (40), the exhaust passage (P), and the tub exhaust port (27) to generate steam. That is, the steam generated by the water supply device (40) and the washing water heater (24) can come into contact with the clothing during the drying cycle, thereby preventing wrinkles from forming on the clothing as much as possible.

[0144] That is, the clothing treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a washing / drying combined washing machine, which, unlike a conventional dryer, may include a washing water heater (24) for heating washing water, and may generate steam by utilizing the washing water heater (24) and a water supply device (40) for cleaning the exhaust duct (P), thereby preventing wrinkles from forming on clothing during the drying cycle as much as possible.

[0145] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a portion of a drying device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 illustrates a drying base and a filter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a different orientation than in FIG. 6. FIG. 8 illustrates a drying base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of portion A shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 10 illustrates a portion of a drying case according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the filter (95) can be detachably mounted on the drying case (81). The filter (95) can include a filter cleaning member (95a) for cleaning the filter (95). The filter cleaning member (95a) can be detachably mounted on the filter body (121).

[0147] The drying case (81) may include a filter mounting portion (102) for mounting a filter (95). For example, the filter mounting portion (102) may be formed by combining a drying base (81a) and a drying cover (81b). The filter (95) may be accommodated in the filter mounting portion (102) of the drying case (81).

[0148] For example, the drying base (81a) may include a base mounting portion (102a), and the drying cover (81b) may include a cover mounting portion (102b). The base mounting portion (102a) may include a portion having a groove shape. The cover mounting portion (102b) may include a portion having a groove shape. As the drying base (81a) and the drying cover (81b) are combined, the base mounting portion (102a) and the cover mounting portion (102b) may form a filter mounting portion (102).

[0149] The drying case (81) may include a filter opening (100a) for mounting a filter (95). The filter opening (100a) may be exposed to the outside when the upper door (19) is opened. The filter (95) may be introduced into the drying case (81) through the filter opening (100a), or may be withdrawn from the drying case (81). For example, the filter opening (100a) may be provided in the drying base (81a) of the drying case (81).

[0150] The drying case (81) may include a filter air inlet (101, see FIG. 16). The filter air inlet (101) may be formed so that air introduced through the inlet passage (85) may be introduced into the filter (95) located in the filter mounting portion (102). For example, the filter air inlet (101) may be formed by combining the drying base (81a) and the drying cover (81b).

[0151] For example, the drying base (81a) may include a base inlet forming portion (101a), and the drying cover (81b) may include a cover inlet forming portion (101b). The base inlet forming portion (101a) may include a partition wall or a rib. The cover inlet forming portion (101b) may include a partition wall or a rib. As the drying base (81a) and the drying cover (81b) are combined, the base inlet forming portion (101a) and the cover inlet forming portion (101b) may form a filter air inlet (101).

[0152] A garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments may include a sealing member (160) to prevent air flowing into the filter (95) through the filter air inlet (101) from leaking when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The sealing member (160) may be provided to seal between the filter (95) and the drying case (81) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The sealing member (160) may be provided along the outer side of the edge of the filter air inlet (101). The sealing member (160) may be provided to be in contact with a portion of the drying case (81) forming the filter air inlet (101).

[0153] The drying case (81) may include a filter air outlet (103, see FIG. 16). The filter air outlet (103) may be formed so that air passing through the filter (95) may be discharged toward the evaporator (93) and the condenser (92). For example, the filter air outlet (103) may be formed by combining the drying base (81a) and the drying cover (81b).

[0154] For example, the drying base (81a) may include a base outlet forming portion (103a), and the drying cover (81b) may include a cover outlet forming portion (103b). The base outlet forming portion (103a) may include a partition wall or a rib. The cover outlet forming portion (103b) may include a partition wall or a rib. As the drying base (81a) and the drying cover (81b) are combined, the base outlet forming portion (103a) and the cover outlet forming portion (103b) may form a filter air outlet (103).

[0155] The drying case (81) may include a filter guide (110) for guiding the filter (95) while the filter (95) is mounted on the filter mounting portion (102). The filter guide (110) may guide the sealing member (160) to be spaced apart from the drying case (81) while the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80), and may guide the sealing member (160) to be in close contact with the drying case (81) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). For example, the filter guide (110) may be provided on the drying base (81a) and the drying cover (81b). Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the filter guide (110) provided on the drying base (81a) will be described, and a configuration corresponding to the filter guide (110) provided on the drying base (81a) may be provided on the drying cover (81b).

[0156] The filter guide (110) may include a filter rail (113) that guides the filter (95) so that the sealing member (160) can be separated from the drying case (81) while the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The filter rail (113) may extend in the direction in which the filter (95) is mounted on the drying case (81). When one side of the filter (95) is in contact with the filter rail (113), the other side of the filter (95) opposite to the one side may be separated from the drying case (81).

[0157] The filter guide (110) may include a sealing guide (114) that guides the filter (95) so that the sealing member (160) is in close contact with the drying case (81) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The sealing guide (114) may be provided at the rear end of the filter rail (113). The sealing guide (114) may guide the rear end of the filter (95).

[0158] The sealing guide (114) may include a sealing support member (114a) that supports the filter (95) so that the sealing member (160) can be sealed against the drying case (81), and a connecting guide (114b) that connects the filter rail (113) and the sealing support member (114a).

[0159] The close support member (114a) can press the filter (95) in a direction in which the sealing member (160) is pressed against the drying case (81). The close support member (114a) can extend in a direction in which the filter (95) is mounted on the drying case (81). The close support member (114a) can be positioned closer to the filter air inlet (101) than the filter rail (113). The close support member (114a) can be provided to press the rear end of the filter (95) in a direction in which the sealing member (160) is pressed against the drying case (81) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80).

[0160] The connection guide (114b) can extend in an inclined direction with respect to the front-back direction so as to connect the filter rail (113) and the close support member (114a). The connection guide (114b) can extend from the filter rail (113) to the close support member (114a).

[0161] The filter rail (113) can guide the filter (95) to be mounted on the drying device (80) at a position closer to the filter air outlet (103) than to the filter air inlet (101). The close guide (114) can guide the filter (95) to be mounted on the drying device (80) at a position closer to the filter air inlet (101) than to the filter air outlet (103). In other words, the filter (95) can be closely attached to the base inlet forming portion (101a) and the cover inlet forming portion (101b) forming the filter air inlet (101) by the close guide (114).

[0162] The filter guide (110) may include a rail entry portion (113a) for guiding the filter (95) mounted on the drying device (80) so that the filter (95) may enter the filter rail (113). The rail entry portion (113a) may extend from the filter rail (113) in a direction away from the filter air inlet (101). The filter rail (113) is formed to extend from the base outlet forming portion (103a) along the longitudinal direction of the filter (95), and the rail entry portion (113a) may be formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle toward the outside of the filter guide (110). The filter (95) may move along the inclined surface and enter the inside of the filter rail (113). The rail entry portion (113a) can guide the filter (95) so that it can enter the filter rail (113) by restricting the filter (95) from moving away from the filter air inlet (101) while the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can prevent the filter (95) from being incorrectly mounted by the filter rail (113) and accommodate it in the filter mounting portion (102).

[0163] The filter rail (113) may have some sections omitted along the direction in which the filter (95) is mounted. The filter rail (113) may include a spaced portion (113b) that is spaced apart from a portion extending from the contact guide (114) and positioned close to the filter opening (100a). The spaced portion (113b) of the filter rail (113) may be spaced apart from the rail entry portion (113a). A predetermined gap may be formed between the rail entry portion (113a) of the filter rail (113) and the spaced portion (113b). The defrost water may move through the predetermined gap formed between the rail entry portion (113a) and the spaced portion (113b) of the filter rail (113).

[0164] The drying case (81) may include a case coupling portion (109) that is provided to be coupled with the filter coupling portion (124) of the filter (95) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The case coupling portion (109) may be provided on the drying base (81a). The case coupling portion (109) may be provided at the rear end of the filter mounting portion (102). For example, the case coupling portion (109) may have a protruding shape, and the filter coupling portion (124) may have a groove shape. Alternatively, the case coupling portion (109) may have a groove shape, and the filter coupling portion (124) may have a protruding shape. The case coupling part (109) and the filter coupling part (124) can be configured to interfere with the installation of the filter (95) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80) with the upper and lower sides opposite each other. The case coupling part (109) and the filter coupling part (124) can guide the direction of the filter (95) for installation on the drying device (80). When the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80) with the upper and lower sides determined in advance, the case coupling part (109) and the filter coupling part (124) can be combined. The user can check whether the filter (95) is normally mounted by the combination of the filter coupling part (124) and the case coupling part (109).

[0165] The filter mounting portion (102) can be divided into areas by a base inlet forming portion (101a), a base outlet forming portion (103a), a filter rail (113), a cover inlet forming portion (101b), and a cover outlet forming portion (103b) so that a filter (95) can be mounted thereon. A space in which a filter (95) can be mounted can be provided by the base inlet forming portion (101a) formed on the drying base (81a), the base outlet forming portion (103a), the filter rail (113), and the cover inlet forming portion (101b) and the cover outlet forming portion (103b) formed on the drying cover (81b). In this embodiment, the direction of movement of the filter (95) is disclosed as being in close contact from the filter air outlet (103) to the filter air inlet (101), but it is also possible for the direction of movement of the filter (95) to be in close contact from the filter air inlet (101) to the filter air outlet (103).

[0166] Referring to FIG. 7, the drying case (81) may include a filter fixing portion (104). The filter fixing portion (104) may be provided such that, when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80), an end portion (132a, see FIG. 13) of a filter lever (132, see FIG. 13) provided on the filter (95) is inserted therein. As the end portion (132a) of the filter lever (132) is inserted into the filter fixing portion (104), the filter (95) can remain mounted on the drying device (80).

[0167] The drying device (80) may include a filter sensor (105). The filter sensor (105) may be configured to detect a magnetic body (129, see FIG. 11) provided on the filter (95) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). Since the filter sensor (105) is configured to detect the magnetic body (129) provided on the filter (95), the user can confirm that the filter (95) is completely mounted on the drying device (80).

[0168] Referring to FIG. 9, the drying case (81) may include a case fixing portion (106) for fixing the filter (95) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The case fixing portion (106) may be provided to pressurize the rear end of the filter (95) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). In one example, the case fixing portion (106) may be provided on the drying cover (81b). The case fixing portion (106) may protrude downward from the upper surface of the filter mounting portion (102). The case fixing portion (106) may pressurize the upper surface of the filter (95) downward. The case fixing portion (106) may be provided to pressurize the filter (95) in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the sealing guide (114) presses the filter (95) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). For example, the case fixing member (106) may be provided in multiple pieces. For example, the case fixing member (106) may be formed in a protruding shape on the upper surface of the filter (95).

[0169] Referring to FIG. 10, the drying case (81) may include a guide edge (107) for guiding the direction in which the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). For example, the guide edge (107) may be formed at the bottom of the filter mounting portion (102). The guide edge (107) may be one of a plurality of edges forming the filter mounting portion (102). The guide edge (107) may have a different shape from the other edges forming the filter mounting portion (102). Since the guide edge (107) among the plurality of edges forming the filter mounting portion (102) has a different shape from the other edges, a cross-section of the filter mounting portion (102) perpendicular to the direction in which the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80) may be provided in an asymmetrical shape. The filter mounting portion (102) of the drying case (81) may be provided with a guide edge (107) in which one of the four edges is different from the other edges in a cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80).

[0170] The filter (95) may include a filter edge (121a, see FIG. 17) corresponding to a guide edge (107). The guide edge (107) may be arranged so that it may interfere with the filter (95) if the filter (95) is mounted in the drying device (80) in the wrong direction.

[0171] The drying case (81) may include a case support member (108) for pressing the filter (95) in a direction in which the sealing member (160) is in close contact with the drying case (81) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The case support member (108) may be provided at a position adjacent to the filter opening (100a). The case support member (108) may be provided to support a front end of the filter (95). For example, the case support member (108) may be provided to press at least one corner portion of the front end of the filter (95).

[0172] When the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80), the rear end of the filter (95) is pressed by the sealing guide (114), and the front end of the filter (95) is pressed by the case support (108), so that the sealing member (160) can be pressed against the drying case (81).

[0173] The garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments is configured such that while the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80), the sealing member (160) can be separated from the drying case (81) by the filter rail (113), and when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80), the sealing member (160) can be brought into close contact with the drying case (81) by the close guide (114) and / or the case support (108), so that the force that must be applied to overcome the frictional force between the sealing member (160) and the drying case (81) while mounting the filter (95) on the drying device (80) can be reduced. The garment treatment device (1) can be arranged to easily mount and detach the filter (95) on and from the drying device (80).

[0174] Fig. 11 is an exploded view of a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 12 illustrates a state in which a filter cover is mounted on a filter body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 13 illustrates a cross-section taken along line B-B' shown in Fig. 12.

[0175] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, a filter (95) according to various embodiments may include a filter body (121) and a filter cover (125).

[0176] The filter body (121) may include a body filter portion (122) for allowing air passing through the filter air inlet (101) of the drying case (81) to flow into the interior of the filter body (121). Air passing through the filter air inlet (101) passes through the body filter portion (122) and foreign substances may be filtered. The body filter portion (122) may be arranged to face the filter air inlet (101).

[0177] The filter body (121) may include a filter coupling portion (124) that is provided to be coupled with the case coupling portion (109) of the drying case (81) when mounted on the drying device (80).

[0178] The filter body (121) may include a body coupling portion (123) coupled with a filter cover (125). The body coupling portion (123) may be coupled with a cover coupling portion (127) provided on the filter cover (125). For example, the body coupling portion (123) may have a slit shape, and the cover coupling portion (127) may have a protruding shape that can be inserted into the body coupling portion (123). Alternatively, the body coupling portion (123) may have a protruding shape, and the cover coupling portion (127) may have a slit shape.

[0179] The filter body (121) may include a magnetic body (129) for fixing the filter cover (125) when combined with the filter cover (125). The magnetic body (129) may be located on one side of the filter body (121) opposite to the side where the body coupling portion (123) is located. The filter cover (125) may include a portion that can be fixed by magnetic force to the magnetic body (129) provided on the filter body (121).

[0180] Referring to Fig. 12, the filter cover (125) can be mounted on the filter body (121) by fixing one side where the cover coupling portion (127) is located and the opposite side by magnetic force with the magnetic body (129) in a state where the cover coupling portion (127) is primarily coupled to the body coupling portion (123).

[0181] The filter (95) may include an internal filter (128) provided inside the filter body (121). The internal filter (128) may include an internal filter portion (128a) for filtering foreign substances from air passing through the internal filter (128). The internal filter portion (128a) may filter foreign substances from air passing through the body filter (122) of the filter body (121). The internal filter (128) may be mounted on the filter body (121) or the filter cover (125).

[0182] The filter cover (125) may include a cover coupling portion (127) that can be coupled to the body coupling portion (123). The filter cover (125) may include a cover filter portion (126) for filtering foreign substances from air discharged from the filter (95). The cover filter portion (126) may filter foreign substances from air that has passed through the internal filter portion (128a).

[0183] The filter (95) may include a handle (130). When the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80), the handle (130) may be exposed to the outside of the garment treatment device (1) as the upper door (19) is opened. The handle (130) may be provided at the front end of the filter (95).

[0184] Referring to FIG. 13, the filter (95) may include a filter lever (132) for securing the filter (95) to the drying device (80) when the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The filter lever (132) may be rotatably mounted on the handle (130). The filter lever (132) may be arranged to be rotatable between a first position where an end (132a) of the filter lever (132) is inserted into the filter fixing portion (104) and a second position where it is detached from the filter fixing portion (104).

[0185] The filter (95) may include a lever elastic body (133) provided to elastically support the filter lever (132). The lever elastic body (133) may provide elastic force to the filter lever (132) in a direction in which the end (132a) of the filter lever (132) is inserted into the lever hole (134) formed in the handle (130). As an example, the lever elastic body (133) may include a leaf spring.

[0186] The handle (130) may include a handle groove (131) formed to allow access to the filter lever (132). A user can operate the lever (132) by placing a hand in the handle groove (131).

[0187] Fig. 14 illustrates a state in which a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a clothing treatment device. Fig. 15 illustrates a state in which a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is inserted into a drying case to a first position. Fig. 16 illustrates a cross-section taken along line C-C' shown in Fig. 15. Fig. 17 illustrates an enlarged view of part D shown in Fig. 16. Fig. 18 illustrates a cross-section taken along line E-E' shown in Fig. 15.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 14, the garment treatment device (1) according to various embodiments can open the upper door (19) to mount the filter (95) on the drying device (80). Referring to FIG. 15, the filter (95) can be inserted into the drying case (81) to the first position.

[0189] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, when the filter (95) is inserted into the drying case (81) to the first position, the sealing member (160) may not come into contact with the drying case (81). When the filter (95) is inserted into the drying case (81) to the first position, the sealing member (160) may be spaced apart from the drying case (81). When the filter (95) is inserted into the drying case (81) to the first position, the sealing member (160) may form a gap between it and the drying case (81). While the filter (95) is inserted into the first position, the sealing member (160) may not interfere with the drying case (81).

[0190] The filter (95) may include a filter edge (121a). The filter edge (121a) may be formed to correspond to a guide edge (107) formed in the drying case (81). The filter edge (121a) may extend in a direction in which the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The filter edge (121a) may have a different shape from other edges of the filter (95). By the filter edge (121a), the filter (95) may be provided with an asymmetrical shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80). The filter (95) may be provided with a filter edge (121a) in which one of the four edges is different from the other edges in a cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the filter (95) is mounted on the drying device (80).

[0191] Referring to Fig. 18, when the filter (95) is inserted into the drying case (81) to the first position, the rear end of the filter (95) can be guided to the filter rail (113) by the rail entry portion (113a). According to this configuration, the garment treatment device (1) according to one embodiment can prevent the filter (95) from being mounted in the wrong direction.

[0192] Fig. 19 illustrates a state in which a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is inserted into a drying case to a second position. Fig. 20 illustrates a cross-section taken along line F-F' shown in Fig. 19. Fig. 21 illustrates an enlarged view of part G shown in Fig. 20.

[0193] Referring to FIGS. 19 to 21, the filter (95) can be inserted into the drying case (81) to the second position.

[0194] The filter (95) is guided by the filter rail (113) and can be inserted from the first position to the second position. While the filter (95) is inserted from the first position to the second position, the sealing member (160) may not come into contact with the drying case (81). While the filter (95) is inserted from the first position to the second position, the sealing member (160) may be spaced apart from the drying case (81). While the filter (95) is inserted from the first position to the second position, the sealing member (160) may form a gap between itself and the drying case (81). While the filter (95) is inserted from the first position to the second position, the sealing member (160) may not interfere with the drying case (81).

[0195] When the filter (95) is inserted into the drying case (81) to the second position, the rear end of the filter (95) can be guided by the connection guide (114b) of the sealing guide (114). The filter (95) can be guided from the second position by the sealing guide (114) in the direction in which the sealing member (160) is sealed against the drying case (81).

[0196] Fig. 22 illustrates a state in which a filter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is inserted into a drying case to a third position. Fig. 23 illustrates a cross-section taken along line H-H' shown in Fig. 22. Fig. 24 illustrates an enlarged view of part I shown in Fig. 23. Fig. 25 illustrates a cross-section taken along line J-J' shown in Fig. 22. Fig. 26 illustrates an enlarged view of part K shown in Fig. 25. Fig. 27 illustrates a cross-section taken along line L-L' shown in Fig. 22.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 22, the filter (95) can be inserted into the drying case (81) to the third position. When the filter (95) is inserted into the drying case (81) to the third position, the filter (95) can be completely mounted on the drying device (80).

[0198] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 26, the filter (95) can be guided to the contact support portion (114a) of the contact guide (114) by the connection guide (114b) of the contact guide (114). As the filter (95) is inserted from the second position to the third position, the sealing member (160) can be contacted with the drying case (81). As the filter (95) is inserted from the second position to the third position, the sealing member (160) can interfere with the drying case (81). As the filter (95) moves to the third position, the filter (95) can be supported by the contact support portion (114a) of the contact guide (114). As the filter (95) is pressurized by the sealing support member (114a), the sealing member (160) is deformed between the filter (95) and the drying case (81) and can seal the edge of the filter air inlet (101).

[0199] Referring to Fig. 27, the end (132a) of the filter lever (132) provided on the filter (95) can be inserted into the filter fixing portion (104) formed on the drying case (81). As the end (132a) of the filter lever (132) is inserted into the filter fixing portion (104), the filter (95) can be fixed to the drying case (81) so as not to be separated from the drying case (81).

[0200] A clothes treatment device (1) according to one embodiment includes a tub (20), a drying device (80) configured to supply dry air to the tub, the drying device including a drying case (81) in which an evaporator (93) and a condenser (92) are mounted, a filter (95) detachably mountable to the drying device, and a sealing member (160) for sealing between the filter and the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device. The drying case includes a filter rail (113) that guides the filter so that the sealing member is spaced apart from the drying case while the filter is mounted on the drying device, and a contact guide (114) that guides the filter so that the sealing member is in close contact with the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0201] The above-mentioned sealing guide may include a sealing support member (114a) provided to support the filter in a direction in which the sealing member is in contact with the drying case, and a connection guide (114b) extending between the filter rail and the filter support member.

[0202] The above-mentioned close support member may be provided to pressurize the rear end of the filter in a direction in which the sealing member is pressed against the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device. The drying case may include a case support member (108) provided to pressurize the front end of the filter in a direction in which the sealing member is pressed against the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0203] The above drying case may include a case fixing member (106) provided to press the filter in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the sealing guide presses the filter when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0204] The above drying case may include a rail entry portion (113a) provided to guide the filter to the filter rail while the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0205] The above drying case may include a filter air inlet (101) formed so that air discharged from the tub is introduced into the filter when the filter is mounted on a long-term drying device. The sealing member may be arranged along the edge of the filter air inlet on the outside of the edge of the filter air inlet.

[0206] The drying case may include a filter air outlet (103) through which air passing through the filter is discharged toward the evaporator and the condenser. The filter rail may guide the filter to be mounted on the drying device at a position closer to the filter air outlet than to the filter air inlet. The close guide may guide the filter to be mounted on the drying device at a position closer to the filter air inlet than to the filter air outlet.

[0207] The above filter may include a filter body (121), an internal filter (128) accommodated inside the filter body, and a filter cover (125) detachably mounted to the filter body.

[0208] The above filter body may include a magnetic body (129). The filter cover may be provided so as to be mounted to the filter body by magnetic force with the magnetic body.

[0209] The filter body may include a body coupling portion (123). The filter cover may include a cover coupling portion (127) that is capable of being coupled to the body coupling portion, and when the cover coupling portion is coupled to the body coupling portion, the cover coupling portion may be mounted to the filter body by magnetic force with the magnetic material.

[0210] The drying device may include a filter sensor (105) configured to detect the magnetic body when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0211] The above drying case may include a filter fixing portion (104). The filter may include a handle (130) and a filter lever (132) rotatably coupled to the handle, the filter lever being rotatable between a first position inserted into the filter fixing portion and a second position detached from the filter fixing portion.

[0212] The filter may include a filter edge (121a) having a shape different from that of other edges among a plurality of edges so that the cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the filter is mounted on the drying device has an asymmetrical shape. The drying case may include a guide edge (107) having a shape different from that of other edges among a plurality of edges so that the shape corresponds to the asymmetrical shape of the filter.

[0213] The above drying case may include a case coupling portion (109). The filter may include a filter coupling portion (124) that is arranged to be coupled to the case coupling portion when mounted on the drying device.

[0214] The above filter may be located on the path through which air flowing into the drying device moves to the evaporator and the condenser.

[0215] A clothes treatment device (1) according to one embodiment includes a tub (20), a drying device (80) configured to supply dry air to the tub, the drying device including a drying case (81) in which an evaporator (93) and a condenser (92) are mounted, a filter (95) detachably mountable to the drying device, and a sealing member (160) for sealing between the filter and the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device. The drying case includes a filter rail (113) for guiding the filter so that the sealing member is spaced apart from the drying case while the filter is mounted on the drying device, a contact guide (114) provided to press a rear end of the filter so that the sealing member is pressed against the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device, and a case support member (108) provided to press a front end of the filter so that the sealing member is pressed against the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0216] The above drying case may include a rail entry portion (113a) provided to guide the filter to the filter rail while the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0217] The above drying case may include a filter air inlet (101) formed so that air discharged from the tub is introduced into the filter when the filter is mounted on a long-term drying device. The sealing member may be arranged along the edge of the filter air inlet on the outside of the edge of the filter air inlet.

[0218] The filter may include a magnetic body. The drying device may include a filter sensor (105) configured to detect the magnetic body when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0219] The above drying case may include a filter fixing portion (104). The filter may include a handle (130) and a filter lever (132) rotatably coupled to the handle, the filter lever being rotatable between a first position inserted into the filter fixing portion and a second position detached from the filter fixing portion.

[0220] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the garment treatment device can reduce damage to the sealing member by guiding the filter by the filter rail so that the sealing member is separated from the drying case while the filter is mounted on the drying device.

[0221] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the garment treatment device can easily mount the filter by reducing the amount of force to be applied to the filter since the filter is guided by the filter rail so that the sealing member is separated from the drying case while mounting the filter on the drying device.

[0222] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, when the filter is mounted on the drying device, the garment treatment device can reduce the leakage of air flowing into the filter by pressurizing the filter by the sealing member and the case support member so that the sealing member is in close contact with the drying case.

[0223] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the clothing treatment device includes a filter lever for fixing the filter to the drying device when the filter is mounted on the drying device, so that the filter can be stably fixed to the drying device.

[0224] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the garment treatment device is provided with an internal filter and a filter cover capable of filtering foreign substances in the filter, so that the performance of the filter can be improved.

[0225] 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.

[0226] 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. Tub; A drying device configured to supply dry air to the above tub, the drying device including a drying case equipped with an evaporator and a condenser; A filter detachably mountable on the drying device; and When the filter is mounted on the drying device, a sealing member for sealing between the filter and the drying case is included; The above dry case, A filter rail for guiding the filter so that the sealing member is separated from the drying case while the filter is mounted on the drying device; and A clothing treatment device including a sealing guide that guides the filter so that the sealing member is in close contact with the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

2. In paragraph 1, The above close guide is, A sealing member provided to support the filter in a direction in which the sealing member is in close contact with the drying case; and A garment treatment device comprising a connecting guide extending between the filter rail and the filter support.

3. In paragraph 2, The above-mentioned sealing support member is provided to pressurize the rear end of the filter in a direction in which the sealing member is in close contact with the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device. A garment treatment device, wherein the drying case includes a case support member configured to pressurize a front end of the filter in a direction in which the sealing member is in close contact with the drying case when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

4. In paragraph 3, A clothing treatment device, wherein the drying case includes a case fixing member configured to press the filter in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the sealing guide presses the filter when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

5. In paragraph 1, A garment treatment device wherein the drying case includes a rail entry portion provided to guide the filter to the filter rail while the filter is mounted on the drying device.

6. In paragraph 1, The above drying case includes a filter air inlet formed so that air discharged from the tub is introduced into the filter when the filter is mounted in a long-term drying device, A garment treatment device in which the sealing member is arranged along the edge of the filter air inlet on the outer side of the edge of the filter air inlet.

7. In paragraph 6, The above drying case includes a filter air outlet through which air passing through the filter is discharged toward the evaporator and the condenser, The above filter rail guides the filter so that it is mounted in the drying device at a position closer to the filter air outlet than to the filter air inlet, A clothes treatment device in which the above-mentioned close guide guides the filter so that it is mounted in the drying device at a position closer to the filter air inlet than to the filter air outlet.

8. In paragraph 1, The above filter is, filter body; An internal filter accommodated inside the above filter body; and A garment treatment device comprising a filter cover detachably mounted on the filter body.

9. In paragraph 8, The above filter body includes a magnetic body, A clothing treatment device in which the filter cover is provided so as to be mounted on the filter body by means of the magnetic material and magnetic force.

10. In paragraph 9, The above filter body includes a body joint, A clothing treatment device in which the filter cover includes a cover coupling portion that can be coupled to the body coupling portion, and when the cover coupling portion is coupled to the body coupling portion, the filter cover can be mounted to the filter body by magnetic force with the magnetic body.

11. In paragraph 9, A clothes treatment device comprising a filter sensor configured to detect the magnetic body when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

12. In paragraph 1, The above drying case includes a filter fixing part, The above filter is, handle; and A clothes treatment device comprising a filter lever rotatably coupled to the handle, the filter lever being provided to be rotatable between a first position inserted into the filter fixing part and a second position detached from the filter fixing part.

13. In paragraph 1, The filter includes a filter edge having a shape different from other edges among a plurality of edges so that the cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the filter is mounted on the drying device has an asymmetrical shape, A garment treatment device in which the drying case includes a guide edge having a different shape from other edges among a plurality of edges so as to have a shape corresponding to the asymmetrical shape of the filter.

14. In paragraph 1, The above dry case includes a case joint, A clothes treatment device including a filter coupling portion that is arranged to be coupled to the case coupling portion when the filter is mounted on the drying device.

15. In paragraph 1, A clothes treatment device in which the filter is located on the path through which air flowing into the drying device moves to the evaporator and the condenser.

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